Newly-installed artificial intelligence (AI) cameras on Kuwait’s roads have detected over 4,000 traffic violations in just a few days, according to the Interior Ministry. Between December 12 and 15, 4,122 violations were recorded.
The ministry has urged motorists to follow road safety rules, particularly regarding seat belt usage and avoiding the use of mobile phones while driving. Traffic accidents in Kuwait, which has a population of 4.9 million, led to 199 fatalities in the first nine months of this year, the ministry reported last month.
To tackle traffic violations, authorities have introduced AI cameras that automatically detect offenses such as failing to wear seat belts and using mobile phones while driving.
In addition, Kuwait is set to implement a stricter traffic law, including higher fines aimed at reducing reckless driving and improving road safety. The current traffic law, in effect since 1976, will undergo significant updates.
On average, 300 traffic accidents occur daily in Kuwait, with 90 percent attributed to distracted driving, speeding, and recklessness, according to Maj. Gen. Yousef Al Khadda, Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic at the Ministry of Interior.
Under the new law, fines for mobile phone use while driving will increase from KD5 to KD75, the penalty for not wearing a seat belt will triple to KD30, and the fine for traffic recklessness will rise from KD30 to KD150.
