- Tennessee’s New Law: License Suspension Due to Bullying
- Reasons for Driving License Suspension in the United Arab Emirates
- Reasons for Driving License Suspension in Saudi Arabia
- Comparison of Systems and Their Impact on Road Safety
- Tips for Drivers to Avoid License Suspension
Recently, the U.S. state of Tennessee enacted a new law allowing the suspension of driving licenses for teenagers convicted of bullying, aiming to combat this serious social issue. Meanwhile, countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia enforce strict laws to suspend or revoke driving licenses due to severe traffic violations that threaten public safety. This article outlines the main reasons for driving license suspension in these three regions.
Tennessee’s New Law: License Suspension Due to Bullying
Bullying and Cyberbullying: Tennessee’s new law permits judges to suspend the driving license of any minor convicted of bullying, whether in person or online, for up to 12 months.
Restricted License Option: For first-time offenders, the individual may apply for a restricted license allowing driving only to school, work, or places of worship.
Purpose of the Law: To reduce the psychological and social harm caused by bullying, which can lead to serious mental health issues like depression or suicide.
Reasons for Driving License Suspension in the United Arab Emirates
The UAE enforces strict traffic safety laws, with the main causes for license suspension including:
Excessive Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit by more than 60 km/h results in license suspension for up to 6 months, heavy fines, and vehicle impoundment.
Reckless and Dangerous Driving: Includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, illegal street racing, ignoring traffic signals, and unsafe lane changes. Penalties may include suspension for one year or permanent revocation.
Accumulation of Black Points: The UAE’s black points system suspends licenses automatically upon reaching 24 points, with possible extension or revocation for repeated offenses.
Medical Unfitness or Lack of Qualification: Suspension or revocation if the driver is medically unfit or not qualified to drive.
Other Violations: Driving without a valid license or using forged licenses.
Reasons for Driving License Suspension in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia applies strict penalties to violators, with key reasons for license suspension including:
Driving Under the Influence: Considered one of the most serious offenses, resulting in imprisonment, fines, and immediate license suspension.
Speeding and Reckless Driving: Exceeding speed limits or aggressive driving leads to long-term license suspension and heavy fines.
Traffic Violations: Including running red lights, not wearing seat belts, and using mobile phones while driving.
Medical Unfitness: Suspension for drivers medically unfit to drive.
Other Violations: Use of forged licenses or driving without a valid license.
Comparison of Systems and Their Impact on Road Safety
Tennessee: Links social behavior such as bullying with driving privileges, reflecting a new approach to deter negative behaviors through traffic penalties.
UAE and Saudi Arabia: Focus on traffic safety by strictly penalizing speeding, driving under influence, and repeated violations threatening public safety.
Tips for Drivers to Avoid License Suspension
Always obey speed limits and traffic laws.
Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Undergo regular medical check-ups.
Respect other road users and avoid aggressive behavior.
Monitor and avoid accumulating black points.
While reasons for driving license suspension vary between the U.S. and the Gulf countries, they share the common goal of enhancing road safety and protecting society. Tennessee’s new law adds a social dimension by linking bullying with driving privileges, whereas the UAE and Saudi Arabia emphasize strict enforcement against serious traffic violations. Compliance with laws and constant caution remain the best ways to keep your license and ensure your safety and that of others.
