DUBAI // Dubai Roads and Transport Authority is introducing new technology to the city’s taxis in a bid to protect the lives of taxi drivers, passengers and other motorists.

In partnership with Arabian Radio Network, the RTA has created a device called Back off Radio, which alerts drivers when they are travelling too close to the car immediately in front of them.

Yousif Al Ali, the chief executive of the RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said once a taxi reaches a speed of 60 kph, sensors fitted to the front and rear of the car are activated.

If the taxi enters within the “safety zone” of the vehicle in front, a warming message is broadcast from a speaker inside the car. A similar warning is made when a vehicle approaching the taxi from behind comes too close.

“This safety message will tell the driver to back away from the vehicle in front and to remember to keep a safe distance as it could be carrying a friend or loved one,” said Mr Al Ali. The device also detects speeding and aggressive driving, which can then be analysed to assist the RTA to create safer roads, he said.

“Through creating an innovative way of broadcasting a much-needed safety message that will educate drivers and help prevent vehicle collisions, the RTA has further demonstrated its commitment to the safety of roads,” he said.

Tests will be conducted over the coming weeks with a number of taxis that will be fitted with the device before their implementation across all taxis in Dubai.

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