Kuwait Implements Stricter New Traffic Laws to Enhance Road Safety, Effective from April 22

Kuwait officially introduced new and tighter traffic rules from April 22 to minimize traffic accidents and save lives. The Ministry of Interior made the announcements as part of the nation’s ongoing campaign to enhance road safety and driver awareness.

The new regulations are introduced following an alarming rise in road accidents as well as traffic offenses in recent years. Drivers who violate key traffic laws, particularly those spotted speeding by more than 50 km/h over the speed limit can now be arrested by police officers.

One of the most significant changes is the red light fine which will now amount to KD 150. Careless driving that puts other lives at risk will be dealt with as a criminal act. The new legislation also imposes a prohibition on the use of cell phones while driving and the offender will be fined KD 75, an increase from the current fine of KD 5. Those who do not use a seatbelt while driving will be fined up to KD 30.

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The legislation aims at impaired driving with severe penalties. It specifies three categories of offenses that are irreconcilable and will be referred straight to court:

1. Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or substances affecting natural capabilities has a fine ranging from KD 1,000 to KD 3,000 and imprisonment of one to two years.

2. If such impaired driving results in property damage, the fine is between KD 2,000 and KD 3,000, with one to three years jail time.

3. If it results in injury or death, the driver will be fined between KD 2,000 and KD 5,000 and imprisoned for two to five years.

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To facilitate these changes the Ministry of Interior has initiated a wide ranging public awareness campaign utilizing both traditional media and social media to inform the public about the new regulations. With the enforcement of these stricter laws Kuwait aims to promote a responsible driving culture and reduce traffic related accidents significantly.