Motorists told to tow broken-down vehicles or face penalties
- Vehicles left on roads may be treated as neglected, exposing owners to legal measures, including the issuance of traffic violations and vehicle impoundment
- GTD urges drivers to use alternative routes during road closures
- Traffic fines must be settled before departure
The General Traffic Department has warned motorists against leaving broken-down vehicles on highways, stressing that abandoned vehicles may be classified as neglected and could result in legal action, including traffic fines and vehicle impoundment.
Assistant Director of the Traffic Awareness Department at the Traffic and Operations Sector, Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Bu Hassan, said high summer temperatures often contribute to vehicle breakdowns on roads, urging drivers to follow safety procedures when facing such situations.
Speaking during the traffic segment of the “Good Morning Kuwait” program Bu Hassan advised motorists to move their vehicles to the far right lane whenever possible, activate hazard warning lights, and place a warning triangle at a safe distance to alert approaching drivers.
He stressed that arrangements should be made to tow disabled vehicles as quickly as possible, warning that leaving them unattended for extended periods poses a safety hazard and increases the risk of traffic accidents.
Bu Hassan added that vehicles left on roads may be treated as neglected, exposing owners to legal measures, including the issuance of traffic violations and vehicle impoundment.
Meanwhile, the GTD has urged motorists to use alternative routes during ongoing road maintenance closures and follow safety instructions to ensure smooth traffic flow.
Bu Hassan, said several major roads are currently experiencing temporary closures and traffic diversions due to routine maintenance work.
He called on drivers to plan their journeys in advance, follow traffic signs, and use alternative routes to reduce congestion in affected areas.
Bu Hassan explained that maintenance work includes the closure of the entrance to Al-Maghrib Road from the First Ring Road, as well as the closure of two lanes on Al-Maghrib Road extending from the First Ring Road to the Third Ring Road.
He added that two lanes on King Fahd Road opposite Bayan Palace toward Kuwait City are also closed, urging motorists to cooperate with traffic officers, reduce speed near work zones, and comply with all safety instructions
Travel Safety Advice
With the holiday travel season approaching, Bu Hassan advised citizens planning to travel by land through border crossings to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained before departure.
He recommended checking essential components, including tires, brakes, engine oil, and coolant levels, and ensuring that vehicle registration remains valid to avoid breakdowns or travel disruptions.
He clarified that travelers within Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can drive using a valid local driving license, while those traveling to non-GCC countries must obtain an international driving permit in accordance with the requirements of the destination country.
Bu Hassan stressed the importance of respecting traffic laws in countries visited by Kuwaiti citizens, saying that responsible driving behavior reflects the image of Kuwait and its people abroad.
Traffic Fines Must Be Settled Before Departure
Bu Hassan also confirmed that expatriates are not permitted to leave Kuwait through land, air, or sea ports until outstanding traffic violations have been settled.
He said the measure is part of enforcing regulations and safeguarding state rights, urging individuals to clear any pending traffic fines before their travel dates to avoid delays during departure procedures.
