The “Achilles” Center of drivers’ rights protection, a member of Partnership for Open Society, strives to solve the problems existing in the sphere of road traffic via the principles of democracy and working with governmental and non governmental organizations. During the ten years of its existence, it has acted as mediator on behalf of many drivers whose rights have been violated.

On Friday, October 16, the Center had organized a press conference to discuss the legislation that presently regulates this area as well as inform the public about respective court cases and the Center’s recommendations to improve the legislation so that the rights of drivers are better protected. Mr. Edward Hovhannisyan, the chairman of the center informed that during 2008-2009 the organization has protected the rights of drivers at their request in administrative court. Out of 62 completed cases, 50 have been successful and three cases have been sent to Cassation Court. He as well said that many of these cases are related to exertion of incorrect procedures by traffic police, particularly when it comes down to checking whether the driver is drunk or not. To prevent or minimize such cases, “Achilles” made recommendations to the government to improve the existing road traffic legislation. Mr. Hovhannisyan also advised the drivers to know their rights so that they can protect themselves better.