Official data from the Ministry of Interior has revealed that traffic violations in Kuwait have dramatically decreased by up to 95% since the introduction of the new traffic law. The latest statistics showcase a significant reduction in violations, signaling positive changes for road safety. This article delves into the details of the decline in violations, enforcement efforts, and the impact on traffic accidents.

The implementation of the new traffic law has led to a drastic drop in violations, as shown by the most recent figures compiled by a local newspaper based on the Ministry of Interior's weekly reports. Prior to the law's enforcement, 51,750 traffic violations were recorded, averaging 7,394 violations per day. However, between April 26 and May 2, this number dropped to just 2,774 violations, with a daily average of 396, marking an impressive 95% decrease.

Comparison with Earlier Data

For context, the number of traffic violations for the first three weeks of April were as follows:

• First week of April: 54,894 violations
• Second week of April: 56,708 violations
• Third week of April: 51,759 violations

Moreover, the General Traffic Department's initial report showed a 71% reduction in violations detected by automated surveillance cameras after the law's enforcement. These violations primarily involved common offenses such as the failure to wear seat belts and the use of mobile phones while driving.

A security source attributed the decline in traffic violations to the law’s effective deterrence measures, which align with the Ministry of Interior's broader goal of improving road safety and reducing traffic-related deaths and injuries. Although violations have dropped sharply, traffic accidents have remained a concern. In the first week following the enforcement of the law, there were 1,344 accidents, of which 174 resulted in injuries or fatalities, while 1,170 were purely material damage incidents.

The data from April 26 to May 2 also sheds light on the distribution of violations across various traffic departments. The breakdown is as follows:

• Capital Traffic Department: 1,382 violations
• Jahra Traffic Department: 447 violations
• Farwaniya Traffic Department: 365 violations
• Ahmadi Traffic Department: 195 violations
• Hawalli Traffic Department: 163 violations
• Expressway Department: 97 violations
• Security Control Department: 94 violations
• Mission Department: 20 violations
• Mubarak Al-Kabeer Traffic Department: 11 violations

The General Traffic Department’s ongoing campaigns have led to the impoundment of 51 vehicles and motorcycles. Additionally, 31 violators have been referred to traffic police stations for further action. Among the 34 arrests made during this period, 15 juveniles were taken into custody for driving without a license, and 43 vehicles, including those wanted by the judiciary and stolen vehicles, were seized.

Furthermore, 35 expatriates were arrested for expired residency status, and two individuals were apprehended for being in an abnormal state. In addition, the department detained seven street vendors and confiscated a hunting weapon during the operation.

The new traffic law in Kuwait has shown promising results in reducing traffic violations and enhancing road safety. While the law's enforcement has successfully deterred many offenders, further efforts are needed to continue reducing traffic accidents and fatalities. The General Traffic Department remains committed to strengthening its enforcement measures to ensure the safety of all road users.