When can a traffic offence in the UAE lead to criminal charges or jail?

A traffic offence becomes a criminal case when it goes beyond breaking the rules and causes harm or involves a serious offence — most commonly an accident that injures or kills someone, driving under the influence, fleeing the scene, or grossly reckless driving. In those situations the police refer the file to the Public Prosecution rather than closing it with a fine, which is why your licence was retained and a file opened. An injury accident is typically investigated as causing harm by negligence, and a court can impose a fine, licence suspension or, in serious cases, imprisonment, depending on the degree of fault and the severity of the injuries. Your insurance handles the civil compensation side, but it cannot absorb criminal liability. For now, obtain a copy of the police report, attend every Prosecution summons, and keep your own record of the accident circumstances. A written settlement or waiver from the injured party often softens the outcome considerably, so it is worth exploring early. Since a court file is already open, having a licensed UAE lawyer review the police report before your first Prosecution appearance is a sensible investment.