The Riksdag stated that the new measures aim to simplify enforcement and enhance road safety by preventing dangerous drivers or damaged vehicles from continuing their journeys.
According to the Swedish Parliament, the updated regulations will also improve the collection of fines, which are non-criminal and do not penalise professional traffic offenders.
“The previous fixed time limit for which a ban or a measure such as a wheel lock can be enforced will be abolished,” the Riksdag explained in an official communiqué.
Currently, vehicles in Sweden can only be immobilised for a maximum of 36 hours. Regardless of whether the driver has paid the fine, the lock must be removed once this period elapses. As a result, many drivers resume their journeys without settling the fine, leaving Swedish authorities powerless to enforce payment.
The new regulations, set to take effect on 1 January 2025, will remove this time limitation, giving authorities greater control over enforcement.