Qatar Refuses Discounts on Phone Usage Fines Amidst Crackdown on Reckless Driving

Qatar Refuses Discounts on Phone Usage Fines Amidst Crackdown on Reckless Driving. In a new crackdown on reckless driving, authorities in Qatar have confirmed that drivers fined for using mobile phones while behind the wheel will not be given a half-price discount to pay for the violation. check Qatar Traffic Violations now.

The fine will remain at a one-time payment of QAR 500 with no early payment discounts, unlike other violations. Captain Mohamed Rabia Al-Kuwari, Officer of the Violations Department at the General Directorate of Traffic, stated that 50-60% of traffic accidents are caused by mobile phone usage and lack of seatbelt compliance.

No Discount for Mobile Phone Violations

Despite the strict ruling on phone usage, a 50% reduction will be applicable to penalties for not wearing a seatbelt if paid within 30 days.

New Unified Radar System in Place

Qatar has rolled out a new unified radar system capable of detecting three types of violations simultaneously: lack of seatbelt use, mobile phone use, and speeding. Interacting with mounted mobile phones or dashboard monitors will also be considered a violation.

Appealing Violations

Motorists can contest any issued violations through the Metrash 2 app or the Ministry of Interior’s website. The appeal will receive a response within a week, following a review by those overseeing the unified radar system.

Images of Violators Available on Metrash 2 App

Images of violators will be made available on the Metrash 2 app, and the new radar technology can even distinguish between a seatbelt and clothing of the same color. These images can be lightened or darkened for clarity.

Heightened Efforts to Prevent Road Accidents

Qatari authorities have been making efforts to reduce road injuries and deaths in recent years. In June, 14 deaths were reported, down from 20 in the previous month. There were also 23 major, 582 minor, and 13,850 simple accidents reported in the same month. Speeding violations accounted for 75% of all road violations, with 138,766 recorded. Captain Al-Kuwari emphasized that “traffic safety is a collective societal responsibility” and urged the community to follow the law to safeguard lives and property.