The new traffic regulations reflect a growing concern for road safety in Italy, where the number of fatalities has prompted government action.
The introduction of zero tolerance for alcohol and drug use while driving signifies a shift towards more stringent enforcement of road safety laws.
The penalties for using mobile phones while driving are designed to deter distracted driving, which is a major contributor to accidents.
If the new law is approved, it is likely to lead to a decrease in road fatalities as stricter penalties may discourage reckless behavior among drivers.
The implementation of alcohol interlocks could further enhance road safety by preventing intoxicated individuals from operating vehicles.
Increased fines for various traffic violations may lead to a more cautious driving culture in Italy, particularly among tourists and local drivers alike.
Italy is set to implement a new road traffic law aimed at enhancing road safety and reducing fatalities, with a focus on stricter penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol, drug use, and mobile phone usage while driving. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini announced that the law, pending Senate approval, is part of a zero-tolerance policy to combat the alarming rate of road deaths, which currently stands at around 3,000 annually.
Under the new regulations, fines for driving with a blood alcohol level between 0.5 and 0.8 grams per liter will range from 573 to 2,170 euros, with potential license suspensions of three to six months. For higher levels of intoxication, penalties will be significantly increased, including prison sentences and longer license suspensions. Additionally, offenders may be required to install an alcohol interlock device in their vehicles.
The law also introduces hefty fines for using mobile phones while driving, with penalties ranging from 250 to 1,000 euros for first-time offenders, and up to 1,400 euros for repeat offenses. License suspensions can last from one week to three months, depending on the severity of the violation and whether it results in an accident.
Other notable changes include increased fines for illegal parking, particularly in disabled spaces, and measures to protect cyclists and regulate scooters, which will now require license plates, helmets, and insurance. The law aims to create a safer driving environment and reduce the number of traffic-related incidents in Italy.
