Use of Mobile Phone while driving is now prohibited in Kuwait

Just a reminder for Pinoy expat in Kuwait.  The decree banning the use of mobile phones while  driving is now in effect. As of May 1, 2008.  The directive is part of the traffic awareness campaign with the goal to ensure the safety and security of citizens and residents in Kuwait.

Drivers will not be able to use their mobile phones as of Thursday, a senior security official said here Wednesday.  The Interior Ministry has already completed all necessary preparations and arrangements for putting in place the ban on the use of mobile phone while driving, Colonel Adel al-Hashash, chief of the Public Relations and Moral Guidance under the Ministry, told reporters.

 

High-level ministry officials have instructed that the ban should be put in force decisively and strictly, he said.
The move mainly aims to stem the tide of mounting traffic accidents that claim the lives of so many people on account of inattention and recklessness, al-Hashash added.

He hailed the masses for having favorably reacted with a recent awareness and guidance campaign launched by the ministry as a prelude to enforcing the ban.

The campaign featured symposia, lectures, booklets, posters and advertisements and whatnots, he said, adding that the ban decree would hopefully protect the lives and safety of drivers.
However, he said that drivers would be able to use other safer means such as Handfry and Bluetooth-www.kuna.net

Based on the traffic research and studies, one of the main reason of serious road accidents that claimed the lives of hundreds of people is due to the inattention while driving.  There are 45,702 road accidents from all governorates recorded in 2007. Based on the record Hawwalli has the highest number of accidents which is around 30%  while Jahra had the least with 6%.of the total accidents.

So, drivers in Kuwait always make sure to bring your handsfree bluetooth device of your mobile before going out.  Just in case you have a very urgent call to answer atleast you still have a mean to communicate without violating the new mobile directive and one more ” no texting while driving“

Those who drink tea while driving ( I see lot of drivers in Kuwait doing this)  - prepare yourself !!! you’re on the next list.  :)