What is the Impact for You if a Friend Commits a Traffic Violation in Your Car

Your buddy with a valid UAE driving license wants to borrow your car. While it’s understandable, you may have concerns about what could happen if they get into trouble while driving it. For instance, what if they are caught driving under the influence or doing something illegal with your vehicle?

Understanding the Legal Framework

Let's break down the relevant laws:

• Federal Law No. 21 of 1995 on Federal Traffic Law
• Amended by Federal Law No. 12 of 2007
• Ministerial Resolution No. (178) for the year 2017 on Traffic Control Rules and Procedures
• Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021 on Crimes and Penalties Law

Consequences of Driving Under the Influence

In the UAE, driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal and can result in severe penalties. According to Article 49 of the UAE Traffic Law, anyone caught driving under the influence faces:

• Imprisonment
• A minimum fine of Twenty-Five Thousand Dirhams

The law clearly states: "Shall be sentenced to imprisonment and/or to a minimum fine of Twenty-Five Thousand Dirhams, whoever commits any one of the following acts: driving or attempting to drive a vehicle on the road while under the effect of alcoholic drinks or anesthetic substances."

Driver Responsibilities Under UAE Traffic Law

Article 10 of the UAE Traffic Law outlines the responsibilities of drivers:

• Not being under the influence of alcohol or drugs (Article 10(6))
• Adhering to speed limits (Article 10(10))

Implications of Reckless Driving

If your friend engages in reckless driving that leads to accidents or injuries and refuses to provide their details, the police can impound your car. This is specified in Article 59 of the UAE Traffic Law, which states:

• "A policeman may arrest any vehicle driver if found involved in the commitment of one of the following crimes: driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or any other narcotic."

Legal Consequences for Illegal Activities

Should your friend use your car for illegal activities, they could face imprisonment. The UAE Penal Law outlines the punishments for crimes committed using vehicles.

Impact of Traffic Violations on You

Any traffic violations incurred while driving your car could affect you as well. This may result in:

• Black marks on your driving record
• Fines
• Restrictions on your driving license

The 2017 Ministerial Resolution on Traffic Control Rules details the consequences, including fines, points, car impoundments, and license suspensions.

Conclusion

Ultimately, it’s your decision. If you trust your friend’s driving habits, you might feel comfortable letting them borrow your car. However, be aware that if they incur violations, you could face penalties. In such cases, consider reaching out to the relevant licensing authority in the UAE to explore the possibility of transferring penalties to your friend's license instead.

Hope this clears things up for you! Drive safe!