Kuwait is set to implement revised traffic regulations aimed at preventing reckless driving and reducing the number of fatal accidents. Major General Yusuf Al-Khadda, Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic and Operation Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, shared these updates in an interview with KUNA.

Overview of the New Traffic Law

The new draft law has undergone review by Kuwait's judicial bodies and was submitted to the cabinet last week by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, the First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior. Following cabinet approval, it will be referred to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for final approval.

Key Changes in Fines and Penalties

Major General Al-Khadda emphasized that the current traffic law, established in 1979, lacks sufficient deterrents for violators. Notably, the lowest fine for illegal parking is currently set at KD 15 (approximately USD 48.9). Kuwait records an average of 300 accidents daily, with 90% attributed to reckless driving and cellphone use while driving.

Increased Fines

• Cell Phone Use: Fine raised from KD 5 (USD 16.3) to KD 75 (USD 244.7).
• Seatbelt Violation: Fine increased from KD 10 (USD 32.6) to KD 30 (USD 97.9).
• Reckless Driving: Fine escalated from KD 30 (USD 97.9) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Racing on Public Roads: Fine increased from KD 50 (USD 163.1) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Operating Noisy Vehicles: Fine raised from KD 10 (USD 32.6) to KD 75 (USD 244.7).
• Parking Violations: Parking in spaces for disabled persons will incur a fine of KD 150 (USD 489.5), up from KD 10 (USD 32.6).
• Speeding Fines: Increased from KD 20-50 (USD 65.2-163.1) to KD 70-150 (USD 228.4-489.5).

Categories of Offenses and Penalties

The new law classifies driving violations into three main categories, significantly increasing fines and penalties for offenders:

1. Driving Under Influence: Fines will increase from KD 1,000 (USD 3,263) to a maximum of KD 3,000 (USD 9,791), with possible imprisonment of one to two years.
2. Causing Property Damage: Fines will range from KD 2,000 (USD 6,527) to KD 3,000 (USD 9,791), with potential imprisonment of two to five years.
3. Causing Injuries or Death: Offenders could face fines between KD 2,000 (USD 6,527) and KD 5,000 (USD 16,318), along with imprisonment ranging from two to five years.

Vehicle Impoundment and Alternative Penalties

The new legislation also introduces provisions for vehicle impoundment under Article 33 bis for offenses such as reckless driving and using unlicensed vehicles. Article 39 bis provides alternative penalties, including community service and mandatory rehabilitation programs.

House Impounding

Al-Khadda noted that the law allows for house impounding of vehicles until sentences are served. Once ratified, the law will be published in the official gazette, Kuwait Al-Yawm, with a three-month period allocated for the Ministry of Interior to update its programs and conduct media campaigns before the regulations take effect.

Driving Licenses in Kuwait

Currently, there are approximately 1.9 million driving licenses and 2.5 million vehicles in Kuwait. Under the new law, residents will be permitted to own only one vehicle, with specific guidelines to be established by the Minister of Interior.