New Traffic Laws in Italy: Stricter Penalties and License Suspensions
Italy is set to implement a new road traffic law aimed at reducing the alarming number of fatalities on its roads, which currently stands at around 3,000 deaths annually. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini has announced that the legislation, which has already passed the Chamber of Deputies and is awaiting Senate approval, will introduce harsher fines and penalties for various driving offenses, including using a cell phone and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Key Changes to Driving Regulations
Under the proposed law, fines for using a cell phone while driving will range from €250 to €1,000, with repeat offenders facing fines up to €1,400 and potential license suspensions of up to three months. Notably, if the use of a phone leads to an accident, the suspension period doubles.
For alcohol-related offenses, the penalties are significantly increased. Drivers with a blood alcohol level between 0.5 and 0.8 grams per liter will incur fines between €573 and €2,170, along with a license suspension of three to six months. Those exceeding 0.8 grams face doubled penalties, including potential imprisonment and fines ranging from €800 to €3,200. A blood alcohol level above 1.5 grams could result in a prison sentence of six months to one year and fines between €1,500 and €6,000. Furthermore, offenders may be required to install an alcohol interlock device in their vehicles.
Additional Measures and Implications
The new law also addresses drug use while driving, imposing a zero-tolerance policy that allows for immediate license revocation upon testing positive for drugs. Additionally, the legislation introduces stricter regulations for cyclists and scooters, mandating license plates, helmets, and insurance for scooter riders. The law aims to enhance safety for all road users, including cyclists, by requiring motorists to maintain a safe distance when overtaking.
Moreover, penalties for abandoning animals have become more severe, with potential license suspensions of six months to one year and prison sentences of up to seven years if such actions lead to serious accidents. Speed camera regulations will also change, requiring advance notice of their locations and adjusting fines for multiple offenses within a short time frame.
These comprehensive reforms reflect Italy's commitment to improving road safety and reducing traffic-related fatalities, aligning with a broader trend of increasing accountability for drivers.
