Dubai Court Halves Traffic Fine to Dh5,000 After Reassessing Accident Liability
Judges cite shared responsibility as driver’s Dh10,000 penalty is reduced and licence suspension lifted in motorcycle collision case.
Staff WriterMar 31, 2026, 10:11 AMDubai Traffic Court has reduced a driver’s traffic fine from Dh10,000 to Dh5,000 after reviewing arguments that questioned whether a motorcycle accident could be attributed solely to the driver.
The case arose from a collision in the Al Awir area between a car and a motorcycle, resulting in minor injuries to the rider and property damage. While the court confirmed that a traffic violation had occurred, judges reconsidered the circumstances and reduced the financial penalty.
The defence argued that the motorcyclist’s actions and other surrounding factors played a significant role in the accident, casting doubt on the causal link between the driver’s manoeuvre and the injuries sustained.
According to the defence, the motorcycle was travelling at relatively high speed at night and lacked proper lighting or reflective equipment, making it difficult for the driver to detect it in time. The vehicle also approached from a blind-spot angle, limiting visibility even during a standard turn at the intersection.
Medical reports submitted in court showed that the motorcyclist was treated at a hospital and discharged the same day. The defence argued that the minor nature of the injuries weakened claims of serious bodily harm.
A key legal issue in the case was the principle of causation under UAE law, which requires a direct link between a driver’s actions and the resulting injuries. The defence contended that the motorcyclist’s speed and inadequate visibility equipment were intervening factors that reduced the driver’s degree of responsibility.
The case initially resulted in an in absentia ruling imposing a Dh10,000 fine and a three-month licence suspension. After reviewing the defence submissions and evidence, the court reduced the fine to Dh5,000 and lifted the licence suspension, while reaffirming that a traffic violation had occurred.
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