Video an accident in the UAE and get AED150,000 fine

New regulations from the Ministry of the Interior aim to curb motorists from crowding around accident sights, as well as filming traffic collisions. The new regulations want to curtail anything that might delay emergency personal from getting to accidents as quickly as possible.

The ministry also said that those posting photographs and videos of accidents on social networking sites could receive up to AED150,000 in fines.

Previously, the ministry said that circulating accident images "is deemed an irresponsible behaviour among the citizens. It is also a violation of the law".

"The circulation of these images is unacceptable as it can cause a psychological shock to the families of victims when they view such images," said the ministry in a statement.

"Taking pictures of accident scenes and sharing them online is against the UAE's values derived from the Islamic concept of tolerance."

Those found posting photos or videos on social media fall in violation of the UAE’s cybercrime law (with fines up to AED150,000). Those blocking accidents or emergency vehicles can be punished with a fine of AED1,000.

Brigadier Khalifa Mohammed Al Khaili, director of Traffic and Patrols of the Abu Dhabi Police said: "Crowding and taking photos at accident sites could delay the work of traffic patrols, ambulances and civil defence vehicles, which will result in worsening the condition of the injured or may even cause fatalities.

"People should consider the serious consequences of such "uncivilised behaviour" which may endanger their lives and the lives of others," he said.

Last year the Abu Dhabi Police launched a campaign with du to raise awareness about the issue of crowding around accident sites and taking photos. The campaign, ‘Post Wisely’, was intended to educate the public about the serious consequences this behaviour can have.