Traffic Law Reforms Implemented in Bahrain to Curb Dangerous Driving

Bahrain has announced a major overhaul of its traffic laws, introducing tougher penalties to curb reckless driving and reduce fatal accidents. The reforms, directed by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, aim to deter dangerous behavior behind the wheel and enhance road safety.

 

Key Changes to the Traffic Law

The new measures, spearheaded by Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, introduce stricter penalties for a wide range of traffic violations. The goal is to address the recent increase in accidents, some of which have resulted in serious injuries and fatalities.

 

Key changes include:

Vehicle Confiscation: Vehicles involved in serious accidents or dangerous driving can now be confiscated.

 

Increased Fines and Penalties: Both the minimum and maximum limits for financial fines, custodial sentences, and other criminal penalties have been increased.

 

Harsher Penalties for Serious Offenses: Penalties will be intensified for accidents resulting in injury or death, especially when linked to major violations. This includes offenses like running red lights, speeding, driving on the hard shoulder, driving against traffic, reckless driving, or driving under the influence.

 

Interior Ministry Under-Secretary for Legislative Affairs Rashid Bunajma stated that stricter penalties are an "effective tool to correct driver behaviour, deter violators and reduce dangerous traffic practices." He also highlighted that these new laws are a direct response to a recent push from Members of Parliament (MPs) for a comprehensive review of the Traffic Law. The MPs' call for action followed a recent surge in accidents that claimed the lives of citizens and residents.

 

Public Awareness and Education

Alongside the new penalties, the Interior Ministry will launch a public awareness campaign. According to Bunajma, the campaign will educate all road users about the new laws, proper road etiquette, and the dangers of reckless behavior. The General Directorate of Traffic will utilize innovative methods to ensure the message reaches the public effectively.

 

The new reforms follow a tragic incident on May 30 in Saar, where a driver under the influence of drugs and alcohol veered into oncoming traffic. The collision resulted in the deaths of Ahmed Al Orrayedh, his wife Fatema Al Qaidoom, and their seven-year-old son, Abdulaziz.

 

For any enquiries please fill out this form, or contact info@thelawreporters.com  Follow  The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels