Driver’s Dh10,000 traffic fine halved to Dh5,000 in Dubai motorcycle accident case.
A Dubai Traffic Court has reduced a traffic accident fine to Dh5,000 after reviewing defence arguments questioning whether the crash was entirely the driver’s fault.
The case involved a collision between a car and a motorcycle in the Al Awir area, which resulted in injuries to the rider and property damage.
While the court confirmed that the driver had committed a traffic violation, judges reconsidered the circumstances and lowered the financial penalty.
Defence arguments
The defendant, represented by lawyer Mohammed Al Awami Al Mansoori, contested the prosecution’s account, arguing that the accident could not be solely attributed to the driver.
The defence argued that the motorcyclist’s actions and the surrounding conditions significantly contributed to the collision, casting doubt on whether the driver’s manoeuvre was the sole cause of the injuries.
They noted that the motorcycle was travelling at a relatively high speed at night and lacked adequate lighting or reflective markings, making it difficult for the driver to see and avoid the crash in time.
Lawyers also highlighted that the motorcycle approached from a blind-spot angle, limiting the driver’s ability to see it even while executing a standard turn at the intersection.
Medical evidence
The defence presented medical reports showing that the injured motorcyclist was treated at the hospital and discharged on the same day. Lawyers argued that the findings indicated relatively minor injuries, with no prolonged treatment or permanent disability, thereby weakening claims of serious bodily harm.
Legal debate over causation
A key issue in the case centered on the UAE legal principle of causation, which requires prosecutors to establish a direct link between the driver’s actions and the resulting injuries.
The defence argued that the motorcyclist’s alleged high speed and lack of visibility equipment could be considered an intervening factor, potentially weakening the causal link and reducing the driver’s level of responsibility.
Court assessment
The case initially resulted in an in absentia ruling, imposing a Dh10,000 fine and a three-month driving licence suspension.
However, after reviewing the defence’s submissions and the evidence, the court reconsidered the circumstances of the accident.
In its final judgment, the court reduced the fine to Dh5,000 and lifted the three-month licence suspension, while affirming that the driver had committed a traffic violation.
