Warning issued after minibus-truck crash killed 7 in Dubai

Dubai Police have issued a warning about the dangers of stopping on the road after a minibus crashed into a broken-down truck on Dubai's Emirates Road, killing seven and injuring nine others.

Dubai Police said preliminary investigations showed the truck had stopped on the road due to a technical malfunction and the minibus driver failed to break in time because he failed to maintain a safe distance.

They did not specify when the accident occurred.

All the injured are being treated, with five in critical condition and four with moderate injuries, added Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police.

Under the UAE traffic laws, stopping in the middle of the road carries a fine of AED 1,000 and six black points, in addition to AED 500 in fine for obstructing traffic.

Brigadier Suwaidan urged motorists to contact the police immediately if their vehicle breaks down and cannot be moved, so that necessary safety measures can be taken.

He said motorists must take preventive measures until the authorities reach the site. "These measures include activating hazard warning lights, ensuring the safety of the driver and any passengers first, then placing a warning triangle behind the vehicle at a safe distance, leaving the vehicle entirely and moving to a safe location away from the road, and finally contacting the police."