Kuwait Sees 10K Drop in Traffic Fines Before New Law Arrives

Kuwait has seen a significant drop in traffic violations just weeks before a strict new law takes effect. According to the latest statistics from the General Traffic Department, there were 30,924 recorded violations between March 1 and March 7—down by nearly 10,000 from the 40,045 violations recorded the previous week (February 22 to February 28).

Key Changes in Traffic Statistics

A comparison of weekly data from February and early March reveals a few noteworthy trends:

• Fewer Underage Drivers: Only 14 juveniles were arrested for driving without a license, a sharp drop from the 44 arrested in the previous week.
• More Traffic Accidents: Despite the decrease in violations, accidents have risen. February saw 1,383 reported accidents, while the first week of March recorded 1,518.

The decline in violations comes as authorities ramp up enforcement ahead of the new traffic law, set to take effect on April 22.

Increased Traffic Enforcement and Arrests

Authorities have intensified their traffic campaigns, resulting in multiple arrests and vehicle impoundments:

• 52 individuals were arrested for serious traffic violations.
• 179 vehicles and 10 motorcycles were impounded for offenses such as illegal tinting and excessive noise.
• 6 expatriates violating residency laws were taken into custody.
• 10 wanted individuals were arrested.
• 5 people were caught with narcotics.
• 3 individuals were arrested for driving under the influence.

Most Traffic Violations by Location

The highest number of violations were recorded in:

• Hawalli: 5,889 violations
• Farwaniya: 5,389 violations
• Highways: 4,019 violations
• Capital: 3,883 violations

What the New Traffic Law Means for Drivers

The upcoming law introduces stricter penalties, including:

• License Revocation: First-time drivers will lose their license if they commit two violations within their first year.

Harsh Fines & Jail Time:

• Driving Without a License: Up to 3 months in jail and fines of 150–300 dinars.
• Reckless Driving or Hit-and-Run: Up to 1 year in jail.
• Driving Under the Influence: Up to 2 months in jail and fines up to 3,000 dinars.

Other Violations:

• Parking on sidewalks or driving without headlights: 45–75 dinars.
• Driving without brakes: Up to 200 dinars.

Additionally, in cases of accidents causing injury or death, the driver’s vehicle license will be seized within 24 hours for investigation.