Gendarmerie Warns of Harsh Penalties for Highway U-Turns

Algeria's Gendarmerie Nationale has reinforced its commitment to road safety by reminding drivers of the severe penalties for illegal U-turns and reversals on highways. A recent statement via its official Tariki.DZ page highlighted sanctions outlined in the Code de la route 2026, which include prison sentences of up to five years and fines reaching 200,000 Algerian Dinars for such infractions.

The penalties vary based on vehicle type. Drivers of light vehicles found performing illegal U-turns or reversals face imprisonment ranging from six months to two years, alongside fines between 50,000 DA and 200,000 DA. For heavy vehicles and professional transport, including public, school, goods, or hazardous material carriers, the sanctions are more stringent, with prison terms of three to five years and fines set between 300,000 DA and 500,000 DA. Article 136 of Law N° 26-09 of May 12, 2026, which governs the Code de la route in Algeria, classifies this maneuver as a serious offense due to its extreme danger on high-speed roads.

This renewed emphasis on enforcement addresses a persistent and increasingly common dangerous practice on Algerian highways. Such maneuvers frequently lead to severe accidents, often involving high-speed rear-end collisions or multi-vehicle pile-ups, which can result in fatalities or irreversible injuries. The Gendarmerie Nationale's reminder aims to increase driver vigilance and curb these hazardous behaviors to protect lives and enhance overall road safety across the nation.