Algiers – The Ministry of Interior has clarified that the proposed amendments to the traffic law primarily target dangerous driving behaviors, not drivers in general. This announcement comes amidst public debate surrounding the severity of penalties outlined in the draft legislation.
According to Abdelghani Hamani, Director of Roads and Logistics at the Ministry of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transportation, the intensified penalties will only be applied in cases of proven serious violations, following thorough investigations. He emphasized that responsibility will not be automatically assigned but rather determined after careful assessment of the circumstances surrounding each incident.
“The focus is on combating perilous actions that endanger road users, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics,” Hamani stated. He added that the new law aims to cultivate a culture of road safety built on prevention and responsibility, not solely on punishment.
The draft law was developed by a specialized committee comprising experts and professionals in the field, incorporating numerous suggestions to enhance its effectiveness. It seeks to reduce reckless behaviors identified as major contributors to traffic accidents.
One of the key innovations of the proposed law is the expanded scope of legal accountability in serious accidents. For the first time, it will include entities responsible for road construction and maintenance, as well as importers of substandard spare parts. The rationale is that poor infrastructure or the use of non-compliant parts can directly cause accidents.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving road safety and reducing human and material losses through a comprehensive approach that combines deterrence, prevention, and precise determination of responsibilities. DZWatch will continue to follow this developing story.
