MPs review harsher penalties for deadly traffic offences

TDT | Manama

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Tougher punishments for traffic offences that cause injury or death are being reviewed by Parliament’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee.

The panel is studying several proposed changes to the Traffic Law in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, which has been closely involved in the process.

One proposal targets drivers who run red lights and end up causing an accident.

Guilty

At present, those found guilty face between three months and a year behind bars, a fine ranging from BD1,000 to BD3,000, or both.

If someone dies as a result, the punishment is doubled. That means a minimum of six months in prison and a fine of at least BD2,000.

Speeding is also in the frame.

Penalty

Under Article 50 of the law, anyone caught driving more than 30 per cent over the speed limit faces a similar penalty: no less than three months in jail and a BD1,000 fine, or either one. If there is a death, or the same offence is repeated within 12 months, the sanction is doubled.

The committee said it had gone over these clauses line by line and was now weighing proposed changes.

It wants stronger consequences for dangerous behaviour behind the wheel, especially when it puts lives at risk.

Views

The Ministry of Interior has been involved throughout and continues to share its views with lawmakers.

The committee said it would keep studying any new input from the ministry, particularly in light of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s instruction to look again at penalties for road offences that result in serious harm or loss of life.

That instruction, the committee said, puts the safety of road users at the top of the agenda.