Since there is no law in the UAE that says the installation of dashboard cameras are illegal, Federal Traffic Council recommended to install them on cars. In fact, a top official claimed that motorists can also put up mobile phones with cameras properly with windshield, provided it is done to monitor traffic violations.
According to Khaleej Times, Major-General Mohammed Saif Al Zafeen, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai Police for Operations Affairs , who chaired the council recommended the idea of using dashboard cameras. He stated that some people jump in front of vehicles to later claim blood money on purpose.
"Having a camera would reveal what happened," he stated via Emirates247. He also made clear that the FTC had agreed that the use of dashboard cameras would not violate privacy, as the driver is recording what is happening on the road. Major-General Al Zafin claimed that the FTC has also recommended not tinting windshields in order to strengthen security and safety on the road.
The practice came to light after a person was found to have jumped in front of vehicles twice on two different occasions in a month. It was claimed that the reason he did this was to get compensation money when he got injured, or blood money his relatives could claim if he died. This kind of violation can clearly be recorded by dash cameras, said Maj-Gen Al Zafeen.
T3 Middle East also noted that people with such financial need are usually the one that would go through this type of practice. And having a dashboard camera can somehow prove that the driver isn't at fault when someone walks in front of the vehicle with intent. In addition, the device can also be helpful to the police in searching wanted individuals.
The Dubai Police also made a point that it also should not breach the privacy of others. But then, they reminded the citizens that that filming others without their consent and posting them online is still considered a criminal offense that could land you jail along with a hefty fine.
For now, the council did not find any reason that installing cameras in cars pose any traffic problem and as a matter of fact, latest cars have their own pre-fitted cameras. The council also stressed that this will help to identify the party causing a traffic accident, especially in run over cases.
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