Traffic Department: Abandoned vehicles on roads are treated as neglected and referred to impoundment

Kuwait officials confirmed that Assistant Director of the Traffic Awareness Department in the Traffic Affairs and Operations Sector, Major Abdullah Buhasan, stated that several vital roads are experiencing temporary closures and diversions due to routine maintenance works. He called on drivers to adhere to traffic guidelines and use alternative routes to avoid congestion and maintain the smooth flow of traffic.

Buhasan, during the traffic segment of the program "Good Morning Kuwait," noted that the maintenance works include the closure of the entrance to the Maghreb Road from the First Ring Road, as well as the closure of two lanes on the Maghreb Road extending from the First Ring Road to the Third Ring Road. This necessitates that road users plan their trips in advance and choose alternative routes to alleviate pressure on the area and avoid traffic jams.

He added that there is also a closure of two lanes on King Fahd Road opposite Bayan Palace, heading toward Kuwait City. He urged drivers to comply with informational signs and instructions issued by traffic police, and to reduce speed when approaching work sites to ensure everyone's safety.

Major Buhasan pointed out that the high temperatures during the summer season sometimes lead to vehicle breakdowns on highways. He emphasized the necessity of handling such situations correctly by stopping the vehicle on the far right lane whenever possible, turning on hazard lights, placing a warning triangle at a safe distance to alert other road users, and then moving the vehicle as quickly as possible without leaving it at the site.

He clarified that leaving a vehicle on the road for an extended period may result in it being classified as an abandoned vehicle, which entails legal action against its owner, including issuing a fine and impounding the vehicle. Furthermore, its presence on the road poses a danger to public safety and could cause traffic accidents.

Regarding travel during holiday seasons, Buhasan called on citizens wishing to travel by car through land borders to ensure that routine vehicle maintenance is performed, tires, brakes, oils, and cooling systems are inspected, and the vehicle registration booklet is valid before departure, to avoid any breakdowns or problems during the trip.

He explained that travel within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is conducted using a valid local driving license, while travelers heading to non-GCC countries must obtain an international driving license before departure, in accordance with the regulations in those countries.

Buhasan stressed the importance of Kuwaiti citizens adhering to the traffic laws and regulations of the countries they visit. He affirmed that respecting traffic systems reflects the civilized image of Kuwait and its people, and embodies national responsibility. He called on everyone to be the best ambassadors for their country by complying with the law and exhibiting civilized behavior while driving.

In conclusion, Major Abdullah Buhasan clarified that expatriates are not permitted to leave the country through any land, air, or sea borders until all recorded traffic violations are settled. He confirmed that this measure is part of applying the law and safeguarding the state's rights, urging everyone to proactively settle their traffic status and pay fines before their travel date to avoid any delays or disruptions to departure procedures.