Lebanon’s new traffic law : Click it or Ticket

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lebanon click it or ticketLebanon on Wednesday began implementing a new traffic law that includes speed limits and mandatory seat belts in what officials hope is a move that will reduce deaths from road accidents.

The legislation, however, has met with criticism across Lebanon, a country where many roads have potholes, are unmarked and unlit, and where traffic lights often don’t work.

The As-Safir daily said there remained numerous “question marks” about the law and questioned whether it would rein in officials “who break records in road violations while being protected by immunity.”

But police chief Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Basbous defended the measure, saying it’s a “roadmap to reduce the catastrophes of our families and sons on the road” and adding that the law would be gradually implemented over the next two months to win the Lebanese over.

At one of main Beirut intersections, police Sgt. Ziad Hably handed out leaflets to motorists, advising them on new fines in case of violations as he peeked inside vehicles to check the seatbelts were on.

In contrast to just the day before, most motorists had their seatbelts fastened and those on motorcycles wore helmets. Closely watched by policemen, drivers were also abiding by traffic lights.

Police Capt. Eddie Kahwaji said his men were “surprised by the commitment of the people” and that he hopes “deaths on the roads will drop.”

Some, like taxi driver Samir Ghadban, claimed that “nothing has changed” because they were already following regulations.

New 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, a system under which repeat violations could lead to revoking the driver’s license for a certain period of time.

Worst violations are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving 60 kilometers (37 miles) over the speed limit.

ABC/AP

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5 responses to “Lebanon’s new traffic law : Click it or Ticket”

  1. Leborigine Avatar
    Leborigine

    It makes me laugh when I see the Lebanese government issuing such laws!
    Is this a law for all or only for a few selected?
    So, if an HA member gets pulled over, will he pay the fine or shoot the issuing officer?
    Or if one of Geagea’s bodyguards gets pulled over, will he pay the fine or break the issuing officers legs?
    Also, will the issuing officer look at the name and ID card and forgive the offender because they are from the same sect or village?
    This is at most a big joke! Lebanon has become as backwards as syria, tribal leaders and gangs controlling the streets, a joke indeed!

    1. arzatna1 Avatar

      This is not the first time Lebanon has such laws
      The problem is as you pointed out ” hamiya haramiya ”
      Those who are supposed to implement the law are its biggest violators
      Of course HA members and politicians have their own laws .
      and unfortunately the Lebanese expats adjust too quickly too when they visit Lebanon !!!
      This is why driving in Lebanon is extremely stressful

      1. 5thDrawer Avatar
        5thDrawer

        If everyone drives the speed limit, the low flying to Tripoli in the cab will need coffee … :-))))

    2. sweetvirgo Avatar
      sweetvirgo

      I agree there are a few selected that can get away from traffic violations. Take our Chicago Mayor Mr. Rahm Emanuel for instance. It was his bright idea to increase and install photo speed lights near schools and photo enforced red lights but his motorcade had over 17 violations. He hasn’t paid anything. If I racked up 17 violations my license would have been taken away. Most government officials and “who you know” can get away with it but it’s the ordinary folks that will get hit with the fine. At least the “click it” policy for Lebanon is a good thing, it can possibly save lives.

  2. I got parking ticket from january 2015, the ticket I got is yellow big paper and I didn’t sign it. I haven’t payed it. My question is should I pay it?

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