Let’s Talk About It — Because It’s About Our Kids
A Wake-Up Call for All of Us
Imagine this: a child steps off a school bus, excited to share their day, only to face a speeding car that didn’t stop. It’s a parent’s nightmare and, sadly, a reality we’ve seen too often.
In 2024, nearly 29,000 drivers across the UAE were fined for not stopping when school buses extended their ‘Stop’ signs — a clear signal to protect our children as they board or exit buses.
Understanding the Law
The UAE law is straightforward:
- Mandatory Stop: When a school bus extends its ‘Stop’ sign, all vehicles must halt in both directions on two-way roads.
- Safe Distance: Maintain a minimum distance of five meters from the bus.
- Penalties: Ignoring this rule results in a Dh1,000 fine and 10 black points on the driver’s license.
These measures aren’t just regulations; they’re safeguards for our children’s safety.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
The violations weren’t isolated incidents. Here’s a breakdown:
- Abu Dhabi: 23,787 violations
- Dubai: 4,990 violations
- Ajman: 104 violations
- Sharjah: 36 violations
- Fujairah: 3 violations
These figures highlight a widespread issue that demands our attention and action.
Why This Matters
Children are among the most vulnerable road users. Their unpredictability and smaller stature make them harder to see and more susceptible to accidents. When drivers ignore school bus ‘Stop’ signs, they put young lives at risk.
Major Saud Al Shaiba, Director of Traffic Awareness and Media at Sharjah Police, emphasized the importance of both awareness and enforcement in ensuring children’s safety.
A Shared Responsibility
Ensuring the safety of our children isn’t solely the responsibility of school bus drivers or traffic authorities. It’s a collective duty. Here’s how we can all contribute:
- Stay Alert: Always be vigilant, especially in school zones and residential areas.
- Educate Others: Share information about the importance of stopping for school buses with friends and family.
- Lead by Example: Adhere to traffic rules and encourage others to do the same.
Moving Forward
The high number of violations serves as a stark reminder that we need to do better. It’s not just about avoiding fines or black points; it’s about protecting our children.
Let’s commit to making our roads safer for everyone, especially the youngest among us. Because when it comes to children’s safety, there’s no room for compromise.