(BEIRUT, LEBANON) — Lebanon began implementing a new traffic law on Wednesday, which includes a mandatory seat belt ordinance and speed limits in an effort to reduce the number of deaths from road accidents.
The law has been criticized by some Lebanese leaders, who say lawmakers should fix potholes and non-functioning traffic lights before holding citizens responsible for speed limits and seats belts.
But police chief Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Basbous said the law was a “roadmap” to reduce the number of deaths in Lebanon, which have been rising, according to the World Health Organization.
Police officials say they hope the new law would cut the number of road deaths in half by 2020.
Police have been sending out SMS messages and hanging out brochures to motorists and passengers at major Lebanese intersections this week, in efforts to inform Lebanese citizens of the change.
Officials say the new law has been working well on the streets. Police Capt. Eddie Kahwaji said his staff were “surprised by the commitment of the people.”
New traffic fines range between 50,000 Lebanese pounds ($33) and 3,000,000 Lebanese pounds ($2,000), depending on the violation. There are also the points fines, could lead to revoking the driver’s license for a limited time under repeat violations.
Heavier violations are for excessive speed over 60 kilometers (37 miles) and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
A police spokesperson admits the law may need fixes in the future, but says it’s a good start.
“There are always things being added to road safety principles in the world, and this law should be flexible,” Lt. Col. Joseph Moussallem told The Daily Star. “The main purpose of the traffic law is protecting citizens and not collecting fines.”
For more information about the new law and potential penalties, click here.