Kuwait has introduced stricter traffic regulations with significantly higher fines and mandatory arrests in a bid to improve road safety and reduce violations. Under the new law, traffic police are authorized to arrest offenders in specific serious cases, including:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Causing an accident resulting in injury or death
- Participating in an unauthorized car race
- Attempting to flee the scene of an accident or ignoring police orders to stop
Key Offenses and Penalties at a Glance:
- Using a mobile phone while driving:
Fine: KD75 ($243)
Jail: Up to 3 months, plus fines between KD150 and KD300 - Parking in spaces designated for people with disabilities:
Fine: KD150
Jail: Up to 3 years, plus fines ranging from KD600 to KD1,000 - Driving without a valid, suspended, or incorrect license:
Fine: KD75
Jail: Up to 3 months, plus fines between KD150 and KD300
Additional violations include exceeding speed limits by more than 50 km/h, driving buggies in non-designated areas, running red lights, using vehicles for unapproved purposes (such as unauthorized passenger transport), and driving without a valid Kuwaiti license plate.
The updated traffic law significantly raises existing penalties. The fine for using a mobile phone while driving has increased from KD5 to KD75, while the penalty for not wearing a seat belt has tripled to KD30. Reckless driving now incurs a fine of KD150, up from KD30. Parking illegally in spots reserved for disabled individuals now results in a KD150 fine, compared to just KD10 under the previous law.
Authorities say the stricter measures are aimed at curbing dangerous driving behaviors and enhancing public safety on Kuwait’s roads.
