New Regulations by RTA for Tow Trucks
With the increasing hazards caused by the present condition of towing vehicles to the road users and general traffic safety, the Roads Transport Authority (RTA) who considers road safety to be of utmost importance, was prompted to protect this belief by announcing new safety regulations to be adhered by the tow trucks in February that became effective from July 22, 2018. Recovery or towing vehicles operating in Dubai are now required to follow a new strict set of regulations and specifications.
The rules are mandatory and require compliance by all tow trucks. In the event of failure to comply with the following standards RTA shall not renew the registration or register new vehicles in this category:
- It is mandatory for vehicles to have reflective stickers on all sides of the vehicle's body;
- Seventy percent of the flatbed surface of the vehicle must be within the rear axle point;
- Along with other stipulations, there is a restriction on the vehicle's flatbed width in comparison to the driver's cabin limit and the maximum width of the extra elongation should not exceed 5cm on the sides;
- The flatbed must be fixed firmly to the chassis with no space left between the body and the flatbed. The vehicle must also be fitted with a rear safety bumper and a protection rubber of high-quality.
- There must be no sharp edges, poles, metal/wood components on/fixed to the vehicle;
- The truck must also be equipped with a reflective triangle, a warning alarm, and orange warning lights.
Sanctions
As per the Federal Traffic Law, the penalty for
- Diving a light vehicle in a reckless or dangerous – Fine of AED 2,000, 23 black points and the 23 black points. The vehicle can also be impounded for 60 days.
- Heavy vehicle violation that not meet safety and security requirements- Fine of AED 2,000 and reap 6 black points. New vehicles also cannot be registered if they do not comply with the regulation standards.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.