Proposed Law to Stiffen Penalties for Driving on Road Shoulders

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A proposal has been submitted to the House of Representatives to significantly increase penalties for drivers who use the road shoulder, also known as the yellow line.

The proposal, put forward by Maryam Al Dhain and referred to the Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee, suggests imprisonment of up to six months and/or a fine ranging from BD 50 to BD 500 for such violations. The proposal clarifies that this penalty would not supersede any stricter penalties outlined in other existing laws.

Al Dhain stated in her explanatory memorandum that the proposal is in line with Article 1/20 of the Bahraini Constitution, which stipulates that no crime or punishment exists without a corresponding law. She highlighted the significant number of traffic accidents caused by illegal use of the emergency lane, resulting in injuries and fatalities.

She argued that the current penalties are insufficient to deter reckless driving behavior. She emphasised the need for a stronger deterrent, proposing that driving on the shoulder be punished with the same severity as street racing.

The proposal aims to address the growing problem of reckless driving and ensure the safety of all road users. The committee will now review the proposal before it proceeds to the full parliament for debate and potential enactment.