DZWatch Exclusive: After years of tragic loss of life on Algerian roads, the government is finally taking decisive action. A new traffic law, submitted to Parliament, aims to tackle what many are calling ‘road terrorism’ with unprecedented severity.
The proposed legislation goes beyond simply increasing penalties; it seeks to fundamentally redefine the relationship between drivers and the road. The most serious traffic offenses could now carry penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment and fines of two million dinars. This is not hyperbole, but a clear message: causing death by dangerous driving will no longer be treated as a mere ‘accident’ but as a serious crime punishable by law.
Fines are being significantly increased, reaching as high as 13,000 dinars even for moderate infractions. New offenses are also being introduced, such as littering from a vehicle, which could incur a fine of 80,000 dinars.
However, the core of the reform lies not only in punishment but in prevention. The draft law proposes the establishment of a National Road Safety Council, local units to identify accident ‘black spots,’ a national road safety day, and even a presidential award for awareness campaigns.
Furthermore, the bill tightens the requirements for obtaining a driver’s license and mandates regular medical check-ups, including drug testing. Ironically, the points-based driving license system has remained unimplemented since 2009. The question remains: will this new law succeed where previous attempts have failed?
The answer, according to analysts, lies not just in the strictness of the text, but in the unwavering commitment to enforce it fairly and consistently across the board.
