Today's Edition
DUBAI (ALETIHAD)
Dubai Police traffic patrols swiftly rescued Saturday a female driver whose cruise control had unexpectedly malfunctioned on Sheikh Zayed Road.
This prompt and professional response occurred just minutes after receiving the report, effectively preventing a potential traffic accident for her and other road users.
Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, stated that the operations room received a report about a vehicle traveling at a constant speed on Sheikh Zayed Road towards Abu Dhabi, with the driver unable to regain control due to the cruise control malfunction.
He pointed out that the traffic patrols were immediately dispatched to the location and spotted the vehicle traveling in the fourth lane.
“They coordinated a careful escort while guiding the female driver through phone calls and direct instructions, informing her of the necessary steps to take in such situations to ensure her safety and that of others,” Al Mazrouei added.
Al Mazrouei also explained that one of the patrols positioned itself in front of the vehicle, gradually stopping it, while the other patrols secured the lane behind it. He indicated that they created a safe corridor in front of and behind the vehicle, keeping other cars at a distance to prevent any potential collisions, which allowed for a safe stop on the side of the road without any injuries or damage.
The Director of the General Department of Traffic highlighted that the swift response, and effective coordination between the operations room and field patrols, were vital for successfully managing the situation. He praised the traffic teams for their professional and compassionate handling of emergencies, demonstrating Dubai Police's commitment to rapid responses and road safety.
Additionally, he urged all drivers to perform regular vehicle checks and ensure the safety of critical systems, such as brakes and cruise control, emphasising that awareness and preventive measures are essential to prevent dangerous malfunctions.
Al Mazrouei also highlighted the importance of drivers remaining calm and avoiding panic if they encounter a cruise control malfunction. He urged them to ensure their seatbelt is fastened, turn on the hazard lights and headlights, and promptly contact the emergency number (999) at the Command and Control Centre to report the situation.
He further advised motorists to shift the transmission to neutral (N), turn off the engine, and restart it immediately. If these actions do not resolve the issue, the driver should apply firm, constant pressure on the brakes until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Failing this, the driver should gradually release the handbrake while maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel.
If all previous attempts fail, the driver should alternate shifting the transmission between neutral (N) and drive (D) to regain control. If any of these methods work before the traffic patrol arrives, the driver should safely manoeuvre the vehicle off the road.
Al Mazrouei underscored that the safety of drivers and road users starts with awareness and a clear understanding of how to respond in emergencies. He stressed that making the right decision at the critical moment can significantly reduce serious risks.
