The offence could land you with a hefty fine and the impounding of your vehicle, but the human cost could be so much worse…

Shared across the Dubai Police social media channels over the weekend, Brigadier Jumaa Salem Bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, raised fresh calls for concern over a particularly dangerous driving practice.

Accompanied by a stark video showing an example of what can happen when motorists jump red lights, Brigadier Bin Suwaidan urged “to fully comply with traffic signals, gradually reduce speed when approaching intersections, maintain a safe following distance, remain focused while driving, and avoid attempting to cross on an amber light when it is safe to stop.”

He added “adherence to these practices plays a direct role in protecting lives and reducing traffic accidents.”

The statistics that back up these calls for safer driving make for somber reading, with a reported 41 accidents resulting from red light indiscipline since the start of the year, tragically resulting in four deaths and 55 injuries.

Talking about the sorts of activities that lead to drivers running red lights, Brigadier Bin Suwaidan pointed to “rushing to save time, distraction caused by mobile phone use while driving, attempting to cross an intersection at the last moment before the signal turns red, and misjudging speed and distance.”

It’s something Dubai Police takes extremely seriously, pairing awareness campaigns with the application of smart road safety technology for monitoring and catching those who violate the rules.

Whilst the potential tragic loss of life is of course the only motivation anyone might need to refrain from jumping red lights, the penalties for being caught are also worth being aware of. Motorists in light vehicles caught crossing intersections on a red light, will face a fine of Dhs1,000, a total of 12 black points on the license (which will require a clearing fee to remove) and a vehicle impound period of one month. If the infraction was considered to be particularly dangerous, negligent or reckless – the fine could increase considerably.

The message is clear: Pay attention, follow safe driving practices, and leave your phone alone.