A 26-year-old Emirati youth, Ahmad Al Raisi, is sharing his tragic experience to warn motorists about the dangers of reckless driving. After losing his leg in a high-speed traffic accident, Al Raisi is urging drivers to avoid making decisions that could cost them everything.
In a powerful awareness video released by Dubai Police as part of their “Together, Towards Zero Traffic Fatalities” campaign, Al Raisi recounts the harrowing day that changed his life forever. He hopes his story will inspire others to drive responsibly and avoid the life-altering consequences he faced.
Speeding has serious consequences, and the risks it brings are high.
Remember, traffic laws are in place to protect you and everyone on the road.
Together, towards zero traffic fatalities.#SafeRoadforEveryone pic.twitter.com/4jLD7uAvv7— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) October 18, 2024
A Moment of Recklessness That Changed Everything
The accident took place on November 3, 2020, on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, when Al Raisi and his older brother were driving at speeds exceeding 140km/h. In a desperate attempt to overtake a car, his brother swerved sharply, causing their vehicle to collide with an iron barrier. The impact was so severe that it severed Al Raisi’s leg on the spot.
“Everyone who saw the wrecked car thought it was impossible for me to survive,” Al Raisi shared in the video. “I am grateful to Allah for giving me a second chance at life, but I want others to learn from my story and not make the same mistakes.”
A Tragic Accident and a Long Road to Recovery
Image: Supplied
Al Raisi recalls the terrifying moments following the accident. His brother tried to pull him out of the wreckage with the help of bystanders, but Al Raisi remained trapped inside the car for two agonizing hours. The situation was so severe that additional emergency assistance had to be called in from another emirate. Ultimately, the car’s roof had to be cut off for Al Raisi to be extracted from the vehicle.
Despite the loss of his leg, fractures throughout his body, and spinal injuries, Al Raisi remained conscious as he was rushed to the hospital. It was a traumatic experience not only for him but also for his family, who stood by his side throughout the ordeal.
Al Raisi’s older brother played a crucial role in helping him through the recovery process. “When I woke up from the anesthesia, I found they had put a pillow on my leg so it didn’t look like it was cut off,” Al Raisi recalled. “I asked my mother to tell me the truth, and when she lowered her head, I understood that my leg was gone.”
A Message of Caution and Responsibility
Al Raisi’s story is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of speeding and reckless driving. He urges motorists not to let a moment of thoughtlessness take away their blessings, emphasizing the importance of driving safely and respecting traffic laws. His message is clear: no thrill or rush is worth the potential loss of life or limb.
Dubai Police’s ongoing campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of reckless driving, and Al Raisi’s testimony serves as a poignant example of the impact such decisions can have on individuals and their families.
Looking Forward: A New Purpose
Despite the life-altering injuries he sustained, Al Raisi remains determined to move forward and use his experience to inspire positive change. By sharing his story, he hopes to help prevent others from facing similar tragedies. His resilience in the face of adversity and commitment to raising awareness is a testament to his strength and character.
Al Raisi’s message is simple but powerful: “Don’t let reckless driving rob you of the blessings you have. It only takes a moment to make a choice that can change your life forever.”
A Call for Safer Roads
Dubai Police’s “Together, Towards Zero Traffic Fatalities” campaign is a part of the emirate’s broader efforts to reduce road accidents and fatalities. Al Raisi’s story adds a personal, emotional touch to the campaign, reminding all drivers to stay vigilant and responsible behind the wheel.
As more individuals like Al Raisi come forward to share their experiences, the hope is that the message of road safety will resonate more deeply with the public, helping to create safer roads for everyone in the UAE.
