AI Cameras in Kuwait Expose 4,000+ Traffic Violations

Kuwait’s newly-installed artificial intelligence (AI) cameras have made a significant impact on road safety, detecting over 4,000 traffic violations in just a few days. Between December 12 and 15, the cameras recorded a total of 4,122 violations, according to the country’s Interior Ministry.

Why the Focus on Road Safety?

The Ministry has urged motorists to take road safety seriously, particularly when it comes to seat belt usage and avoiding mobile phone distractions while driving. These two offenses have been a major focus of the new AI technology, which automatically detects violations to improve road safety across the country.

Kuwait’s Traffic Problem

With a population of 4.9 million, Kuwait has seen a concerning rise in traffic accidents. In the first nine months of this year alone, 199 fatalities were reported due to traffic accidents. On average, there are 300 traffic accidents every day, with 90% of them attributed to distractions, such as mobile phone use, speeding, and reckless driving.

How AI Cameras Are Helping

The new AI cameras have been rolled out as part of a broader effort to reduce traffic violations. These cameras focus on common offenses like not wearing a seat belt and using a mobile phone while driving, both of which have contributed to the rise in accidents. With this advanced technology, authorities can automatically detect these violations and take action much more efficiently than before.

Tougher Traffic Laws Are Coming

Kuwait is also preparing to adopt tougher traffic laws in a bid to curb reckless driving and improve safety. The updated laws, which will replace the current ones in effect since 1976, will introduce heavier fines for violations. For instance, using a mobile phone while driving will carry a fine of KD75, up from the current KD5. The penalty for not wearing a seatbelt will triple, increasing from KD10 to KD30, and the fine for reckless driving will rise from KD30 to KD150.

The Importance of Compliance

As Maj. Gen. Yousef Al Khadda, Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic at the Ministry of Interior, points out, distracted driving is a major contributor to accidents in Kuwait. With the combination of AI technology and stricter laws, Kuwait is hoping to make its roads safer for everyone.

Motorists are encouraged to follow traffic laws, keep their eyes on the road, and avoid using mobile phones while driving. The use of seat belts should become second nature, not just for personal safety but to avoid hefty fines.

A Step Toward Safer Roads

With AI cameras actively detecting traffic violations and tougher laws on the way, Kuwait is taking a strong stand on road safety. These measures aim to reduce accidents, save lives, and ensure that drivers comply with the rules for a safer driving experience. The combination of technology and stricter fines should serve as a strong reminder to all motorists: safety comes first.