Kuwait’s Interior Ministry announced a 72% drop in traffic violations during the first week of its new traffic law.
Between April 22–28, cameras recorded 6,342 violations—down from 22,651 in the previous week.
The impact of Kuwait’s new traffic law has been immediate and widespread.
Seatbelt violations fell by 71%, dropping from 18,208 to 5,176 in just seven days.
Mobile phone use while driving dropped 86%, with only 422 violations compared to 2,962 the week before.
Violations for failing to stay within road lanes also decreased by 35%, falling from 1,081 to 700.
Driving against traffic declined by 89%, with just 44 violations compared to 400 the week before.
The ministry praised drivers for their compliance and encouraged continued responsibility on the roads.
Drivers are now adjusting to both the benefits and challenges of the new law.
Duaa Sami said she noticed more discipline, especially among drivers previously known for reckless behavior.
Ali Al-Radaan welcomed the improvements but criticized the law’s failure to address congestion and licensing standards.
He suggested retesting drivers with poor records and raising the standard of driving exams.
Fahad Al-Fadhli urged better road maintenance and the use of cameras in residential areas to curb reckless driving.
He pointed out safety issues caused by faded markings and abandoned vehicles.
Abdullah Hamdan noted a visible decline in traffic police presence and called for more enforcement on the streets.
He stressed the need for officers to ticket drivers who break basic road rules.
Majed Ziyad credited the success to higher fines and a three-month awareness campaign before enforcement.
He believes the impact of Kuwait’s new traffic law stems from both deterrence and education.
Ahmad Azzam, however, called some violations excessive—such as checking a phone at a red light.
He criticized the contradiction of banning water drinking while allowing distracting billboards on highways.
Passant Hisham described the law as a source of anxiety, fearing penalties even during safe driving moments.
She admitted her fear of mistimed yellow lights causes hesitation and confusion while behind the wheel.
The impact of Kuwait’s new traffic law continues to generate debate as roads become safer but also more stressful.
