Court powers sought to seize assets of fatal crash drivers dodging compensation

KUALA LUMPUR — Proposed amendments to federal road transport legislation could grant courts authority to confiscate assets from drivers convicted in fatal traffic accidents who refuse or fail to compensate victims, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said on Tuesday. The move aims to enhance victim protection and ensure that financial obligations arising from serious road incidents are met, even when drivers attempt to evade their legal responsibilities. Under the proposed framework, courts would have expanded enforcement mechanisms to pursue outstanding compensation claims against offenders who have been ordered to pay damages but have not complied. The amendments form part of a broader effort to strengthen Malaysia's road safety regulatory environment and provide greater recourse for families affected by fatal accidents. Officials have indicated that the legislative changes will be tabled for parliamentary consideration in coming months, with stakeholders including road safety advocates and victim support groups expected to be consulted during the review process.