In a significant move to enhance road safety and legal compliance, the government has unveiled stringent new measures targeting traffic violations. Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh presented legislation on February 6, 2026, designed to substantially increase penalties for motorists operating vehicles without mandatory third-party insurance.
The proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Insurance Third Party Risk Act represent a dramatic escalation in consequences for offenders. The current maximum penalty of a $400 fine and six months’ imprisonment will be raised to $1,000 or eight months’ incarceration. Furthermore, the legislation addresses other common traffic infractions by elevating penalties from $200 fines or three-month sentences to $600 fines or six-month imprisonment terms.
This legislative initiative forms part of a broader governmental strategy to empower traffic enforcement personnel with enhanced authority while creating stronger deterrents against unlawful driving practices. The reforms specifically target prevalent violations that compromise public safety and financial responsibility on roadways.
Dr. Zabaneh’s announcement signals the administration’s commitment to reducing uninsured motorist incidents and improving overall traffic law compliance through substantially increased financial and custodial penalties for violations.