Senate Pushes for Tougher DUI and Unlicensed Driving Laws
The Senate of the Oliy Majlis in Uzbekistan is taking steps to amend legislation to increase penalties for traffic accidents resulting in fatalities and injuries. This initiative comes after a driver who fatally hit two underage sisters was sentenced to 9.5 years in prison.
The Defense and Security Committee of the Senate recently held a meeting to discuss proposed changes to Article 266 of the Criminal Code, which deals with violations of traffic regulations and vehicle safety. The aim of these amendments is to improve road safety and address the increasing number of accidents caused by negligent driving.
According to official reports, there has been a rise in cases where drivers demonstrate a blatant disregard for the safety of other road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists. Many of these offenders have previously had their driving privileges revoked due to violations or accidents, or were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Between 2020 and 2024, nearly 600 accidents were caused by intoxicated drivers, with 405 of these incidents occurring in 2024 involving individuals who had lost their driving rights. In response to public outcry for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, the Senate is working to implement harsher penalties for drivers who commit serious violations.
Proposals to amend Article 266 include imposing stricter penalties on offenders who drive under the influence or after losing their driving privileges. A working group has been formed to draft the necessary legal framework in collaboration with relevant ministries and agencies.
Currently, Article 266 of the Criminal Code in Uzbekistan allows for up to ten years of imprisonment for violations leading to fatalities, in addition to driving rights revocation. With over 1,000 road traffic fatalities annually in Uzbekistan, the need for stricter enforcement of these laws is evident.
Recent cases, such as the driver who killed two sisters in Jizzakh and another driver in Surkhandarya who caused multiple deaths and fled the scene, highlight the urgency of these legislative amendments. Both drivers were sentenced to 9.5 years in prison and faced driving bans as a result of their actions.
The Senate’s efforts to enhance road safety through tougher penalties for negligent drivers are crucial in reducing the number of traffic accidents and protecting the lives of all road users in Uzbekistan.
