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Kazakhstan has launched a new point-based system aimed at curbing traffic violations. Under this new regulation, drivers and even pedestrians who accumulate 20 penalty points within a year will face a six-month suspension of their driving privileges or be barred from obtaining a license.

New System for Drivers

The initiative, currently in a pilot phase in Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent, was announced by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov. He stated in response to a parliamentary inquiry that drivers accumulating 20 points in a single year will have their licenses suspended for six months.

Points are only tallied after a court ruling becomes legally effective, ensuring drivers have the opportunity to appeal decisions. Following the six-month suspension, individuals will need to retake a driving knowledge exam to regain their license.

Pedestrians Also Accountable

Interestingly, the system extends its reach to pedestrians and other road users who do not possess a driver's license. If these individuals accumulate 20 penalty points, they will be prohibited from obtaining a driver's license for a period of six months.

Following the pilot phase, the government is considering implementing psychological assessments for repeat offenders.

Expansion of Speed Monitoring

Prime Minister Bektenov also noted that the total length of roads equipped with average speed cameras is nearing 2,100 kilometers. Plans are underway to expand this network by an additional 1,500 kilometers. Key routes slated for upgrades include sections such as Kyzylorda-Aral, Kostanay-Troitsk, Aktobe-Orenburg, Balkhash-Buryilbaytal, the Taraz city bypass, Kostanay-Denisovka, Shu-Buryilbaytal, and Kandyagash-Makat.

No Discounts for Law-Abiding Drivers

Earlier proposals from senators suggested incentives for compliant drivers, such as a 50% discount on fines. However, Prime Minister Bektenov rejected this idea, citing a lack of evidence from global practices that such incentives reduce violations. He emphasized that adhering to traffic laws is a fundamental duty of every driver, not something that warrants a reward.

Bektenov did, however, point to the existing economic incentives within the country's insurance system. Drivers with a clean record benefit from lower insurance premiums, while those with violations face higher costs.

This information was reported by the Infohub.kz news agency.