Wafai Msis, Head of the Jordanian Society for Road Accident Prevention, raised concerns about the rising number of vehicles on Jordan's roads, estimating over two million and 100 thousand vehicles, creating a surge in drivers to about 3 million and 100 thousand.

Msis cited alarming 2022 statistics, including 520 fatalities, 11,700 injuries, and 160,000 accidents. Tragically, a life is lost every 16 hours in Jordan due to traffic accidents.

These figures are attributed to reckless driving, indifference to regulations, and prompted the government to introduce stricter traffic laws with increased penalties.

Jordan aims to align with the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, targeting a 50 percent reduction in deaths and serious injuries by 2023.

Msis believes the amended traffic law is a vital step towards improving road safety, as the old law from 2008 became outdated due to the surge in vehicle types, like electric and high-speed cars.

He advocated for harsher penalties for running red lights, emphasizing the danger to others' lives.

Speed limits, responsible driving, and seat belts are essential for safety. Children under 10 are restricted from front seats, and child seats are mandatory for those under four.

Msis strongly condemned phone use while driving and supports doubling the penalty for this offense.

He urged authorities to increase pedestrian crossings and road signs. Msis anticipated reduced violations and fewer accidents with the new traffic laws.