A new traffic law is set to be implemented, prioritizing citizen safety and accountability on Algerian roads. Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport, Said Saayoud, emphasized that the legislation is in direct response to presidential directives focused on eliminating road insecurity and fostering a safer traffic environment for all citizens.
During the presentation of the draft law to the Equipment and Local Development Committee of the Council of the Nation, Minister Saayoud highlighted the law’s emphasis on the safety of drivers, vehicles, and roadways. Crucially, the new law assigns both criminal and civil liability to all parties involved in traffic violations. This comprehensive approach aims to address the root causes of accidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The draft law includes measures designed to address the evolving global landscape and the challenges it presents to road safety in Algeria. Minister Saayoud stated that the law reflects a clear political vision aimed at building a society that respects order and values life. He underscored that citizen safety is not merely an option, but a fundamental commitment of the state, realized through the establishment of a traffic culture based on prevention and mutual respect for traffic rules.
The Minister outlined key aspects of the project related to road safety and prevention, designed to reduce traffic accidents by addressing all contributing factors, whether related to the driver, the vehicle, or the road environment. Those responsible for road construction and maintenance will bear civil liability for accidents resulting from substandard work or negligence. This includes responsibility for damages to the road and its infrastructure.
The new law extends responsibility to all parties contributing to traffic accidents, including those involved in manipulating technical inspection reports, favoritism in issuing driver’s licenses, and those responsible for road maintenance. The law criminalizes the issuance of technical inspection or conformity reports that fail to record existing vehicle defects or contain materially incorrect information. Minister Saayoud stressed the importance of mandatory training and regular medical examinations for drivers, as well as enhanced measures to combat drug and alcohol use, ensuring driver competence and safety. Regarding professional driving, the Minister clarified that the project regulates the transportation of people and goods.
