Kuwait’s New Traffic Law Explained: Tougher Penalties and Regulations
Kuwait is set to implement a new traffic law aimed at reducing road accidents, effective Tuesday.
This law, which replaces the outdated 1976 code, introduces stricter penalties and regulations for drivers, especially expatriates.
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Key Changes Under the New Law
Tougher Penalties
- Arrests Authorized: Traffic police can arrest offenders for serious violations, including:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Causing accidents that result in injury or death.
- Unlicensed car racing.
- Fleeing from an accident scene or ignoring police orders.
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Specific Fines and Penalties
- Mobile Phone Use While Driving:
- Fine: KD75 ($243)
- Jail: Up to 3 months
- Additional fines: Between KD150 and KD300
- Parking in Disabled Spaces:
- Fine: KD150
- Jail: Up to 3 years
- Additional fines: Between KD600 and KD1,000
- Driving Without a Valid License:
- Fine: KD75
- Jail: Up to 3 months
- Additional fines: Between KD150 and KD300
Increased Fines for Common Violations
- Speeding: Exceeding the limit by more than 50 km/h.
- Running a Red Light: Now a felony, punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to KD1,000.
- Reckless Driving: Fine increased to KD150 (from KD30).
- Seat Belt Violation: Fine increased to KD30 (from KD10).
Restrictions for Expatriates
- Expatriates will be limited to owning one car. Repeat serious violations can lead to deportation.
Alternative Penalties
- The law introduces community service as an alternative to fines or jail time, tailored to the offender’s profession.
- Offenders may also be required to repair damage to public property at their own expense.
Awareness Campaign
To inform the public about these changes, authorities have launched a multilingual awareness campaign in languages including English, Persian, Hindi, Bengali, Urdu, and Filipino.
Kuwait has a population of approximately 4.9 million, with a significant expatriate community.
The country experiences between 200 and 300 traffic accidents daily, with a majority attributed to driver inattention. In the previous year, traffic accidents resulted in 284 fatalities.
This new law aims to enhance road safety and reduce the frequency of accidents across the country.
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