The Algerian Gendarmerie has announced that it will no longer issue fines to drivers who do not have a fire extinguisher in their vehicles. This decision was made due to a shortage of extinguishers that meet the required technical standards. The suspension will remain in effect until the necessary equipment is available on the market. This move comes after a surge in demand for fire extinguishers following the implementation of new road safety regulations.
The new regulations, which came into effect in the spring, require drivers to have three safety accessories in their vehicles: a fire extinguisher, a warning triangle, and a reflective vest. Failure to comply with these regulations results in a fine of 4,000 Algerian dinars. However, due to the high demand for fire extinguishers, prices skyrocketed, making it difficult for drivers to obtain the necessary equipment. In some regions, the price of a fire extinguisher reached 12,000 dinars, three times the amount of the fine.
The Gendarmerie has clarified that the suspension of fines does not mean that the obligation to have a fire extinguisher has been abolished. Drivers are still required to have the equipment in their vehicles, but they will not be penalized until the supply chain is replenished. The authorities have invited vehicle owners to equip themselves as soon as possible once the stock is reconstituted.
The shortage of fire extinguishers has caused frustration among drivers, who were being fined for not having equipment that was not readily available. This issue had even reached the parliament, with a deputy questioning the Minister of Interior about the fairness of fining drivers for something they could not obtain.
The fire extinguisher is an essential safety device that can help prevent damage in the event of a fire in the vehicle. Vehicle fires are among the most common types of accidents on Algerian roads. The authorities have emphasized that the requirement for a fire extinguisher is an important safety measure that will be enforced once the necessary equipment is available.
The Gendarmerie's decision to suspend fines has been welcomed by drivers, who were struggling to obtain fire extinguishers. The authorities have assured that they are working to resolve the supply issue and ensure that drivers can obtain the necessary equipment. In the meantime, drivers are advised to be patient and to equip themselves as soon as possible.
The suspension of fines for lack of fire extinguishers is a temporary measure that will remain in effect until the supply chain is replenished. Drivers are still required to have the necessary safety equipment in their vehicles, and the authorities will resume issuing fines once the equipment is available. The Gendarmerie has urged drivers to respect the road safety regulations and to prioritize their safety and the safety of others on the road.
Key points
- The Algerian Gendarmerie has suspended fines for drivers without fire extinguishers due to a supply shortage.
- The suspension will remain in effect until the necessary equipment is available on the market.
- Drivers are still required to have a fire extinguisher in their vehicles, but they will not be penalized until the supply chain is replenished.
