Restoring order on Kuwait roads

I am so looking forward to see this law properly implemented. I have a trace of hope as they mention camera systems getting installed in patrol cars. Fingers crossed, as the jungle mentality on the roads is my top issue in Kuwait by far.

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 8: Acting Undersecretary for Traffic Affairs at the Interior Ministry, Major-General Fahd Al-Shuwea has issued instructions to all traffic departments to apply Article 207 of the traffic law in the strictest sense, reports Al- Anba daily.

According to the directives, the impoundment of vehicles will not be limited to seat belt, jumping the red traffic light or talking on the cell phone, but all violations contained in Article 207 will be applicable.

In the meantime, the traffic sector has started mounting cameras in all traffic patrols to document the conversation between the patrolman and the violator of the traffic law.

According to a security source, this technology has been used to protect the rights of the policemen and the motorists. Any complaint received shall be investigated based on the recording of the conversation. The source said vehicles will be impounded for two months effective from Wednesday, Nov 8, if any of the following violations are committed; however, some sources said it will come into effect after publication in the official gazette Kuwait Al-Yawm:

1 — Driving a vehicle without the numbers plates (back and front) or if the plate is unreadable using plates other than those issued by the General Traffic Department.

2 — Driving vehicles after withdrawing its registration or plates.

3 — Driving a vehicle without registration or with expired insurance.

4 — Driving without obtaining a license or if the licence is withdrawn, or if the license is specified for other vehicles.

5 — Reckless driving that endangers the life of the driver, passenger or others.

6 — Driving without brakes or faulty brakes.

7 — Racing without permission or violating the permission

8 — Committing immoral act inside the car

9 — Deliberately blocking traffic

10 — Exceeding the speed limit (maximum 30 kms)

11 — Skipping the red traffic light

12 — Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or narcotics

13 — Using vehicles for other than the specified purposes

14 — Parking in ‘No Parking’ zones, blocking other vehicles, parking on pavements.

15 — Driving in opposite direction

16 — Driving a vehicle that is ‘smoking’ or carrying other materials that may negatively affect the road or safety of traffic users or damage their cars or causing disturbing sounds.