Cabinet Approves New Traffic Law with Stricter Penalties
The Cabinet has approved a new traffic law introducing stricter penalties, including prison sentences. The law has been sent to His Highness the Amir for issuance as a decree, after which it will officially come into effect.
Key Changes in Penalties
Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic Affairs and Operations, Maj. Gen. Yousef Al-Khaddah, recently outlined details of the law in an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA). The updated penalties aim to enhance road safety and deter traffic violations.
Increased Fines for Common Offenses
- Parking in prohibited areas: Fine raised from KD 5 to KD 15.
- Using a mobile phone while driving: Fine increased from KD 5 to KD 75.
- Not wearing a seatbelt: Fine tripled from KD 10 to KD 30.
Reckless and Dangerous Driving
- Reckless driving: Fine increased to KD 150.
- Running a red light or racing on the road: Fine raised threefold to KD 150.
Environmental Violations
- Vehicles emitting harmful substances, making loud noises, or leaking liquids: Fine increased from KD 10 to KD 75.
- Parking in spaces designated for the disabled: Fine increased 15 times to KD 150.
Speeding Offenses
- Speeding: Fines raised to a range of KD 70 to KD 150, depending on the degree of the violation (previously KD 20 to KD 50).
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Penalties for driving under the influence have been significantly raised:
- Driving under the influence: Fine increased to KD 1,000–3,000, with imprisonment between 1 and 2 years.
- Damaging property: Fine raised to KD 2,000–3,000, with jail terms of 1–3 years.
- Causing injury or death: Fine set between KD 2,000 and KD 5,000, with imprisonment ranging from 2 to 5 years.
The new traffic law reflects a commitment to improving public safety and deterring hazardous driving behaviors. Authorities expect its implementation to reduce accidents and promote responsible driving.