DUBAI: Seven people were killed and nine others injured after a minibus struck a broken-down truck on Dubai’s Emirates Road, police said on Monday.
The accident occurred when a truck stopped in the middle of the highway following a technical malfunction, according to preliminary investigations by Dubai Police. Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic, said the minibus driver failed to pay attention and maintain a safe distance, causing the vehicle to collide with the rear of the truck.
The crash left seven people dead and nine injured, including five in serious condition. All of the injured were taken to hospital for treatment. Traffic patrols secured the scene, managed traffic flow and facilitated access for emergency and rescue teams.
Authorities later removed the damaged vehicles and reopened the road to normal traffic. Dubai Police launched an investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
Following the crash, police renewed warnings about the dangers of stopping vehicles in traffic lanes due to breakdowns, tyre failures or running out of fuel. Under the UAE’s Federal Traffic Law, stopping a vehicle in the middle of a road carries a fine of 1,000 dirhams ($272) and six black points. Drivers may also face an additional 500-dirham fine for obstructing traffic. Police urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting out to help prevent similar accidents in future.
