The new Traffic Lawsdefinitively approved by the Senate and which will come into force 15 days after publication in the Official Journal, introduces important changes to road traffic regulations, aiming to make roads safer and combat dangerous driving behaviour. Let’s see the main changes.
Using a cell phone while driving
Penalties are intensified for those caught using cell phone while driving without hands-free devices. Fines vary from 250 to 1,000 euros, but for repeat offenders they can rise between 350 and 1,400 euros. Furthermore, the temporary suspension of driving licencewhich can last from a week to 15 days depending on the points on your license. If cell phone use causes an accident, the suspension may be extended.
State of intoxication
The new Code provides for more severe penalties for those who drive in state of inebriation. Anyone with a blood alcohol level between 0.5 and 0.8 g/l will have to pay a fine between 573 and 2,170 euros and will have their driving license suspended for 3 to 6 months. If the rate exceeds 0.8 g/l, the fine is more serious: from 800 to 3,200 euros, with a prison sentence of up to 6 months and suspension of the driving license for up to one year. Over 1.5 g/l is added a fine between 1,500 and 6,000 euros and detention can last up to two years.
Narcotic drugs
In the event of positive drug tests, the new Code abolishes the need for tests in healthcare facilities: a positive result from the preliminary test is sufficient to initiate the suspension and revocation of the license, with a ban on obtaining it for three years.
Speed limits and speed cameras
Exceeding the speed limit will result fines between 173 and 694 euros for speeds between 10 and 40 km/h. In a built-up area, the fine can reach up to 880 euros and the driving license can be suspended for 15 to 30 days if the infringement is repeated. The new limits on speed cameras require these to be visible from a distance of at least 1 km on main extra-urban roads and 200 meters on high traffic roads.
Electric scooters
For i electric scootersthe Code introduces new safety rules, such as the obligation to indicator lights and helmet. The scooters must only circulate on urban roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h and cannot be used against traffic or on cycle paths. Sharing companies will have to install systems for prevent the use of vehicles outside permitted areas. Hoverboards and monowheels (segways and monowheels) will only be able to circulate in pedestrian areas at 6 km/h. Electric bikes cannot exceed 250 watts of power and 25 km/h and in case of modification there is a risk of seizure.
New drivers
THE New drivers will have to wait three yearsinstead of one, before being allowed to drive vehicles with power above 105 kW (142 hp) with the hope of limiting the risks for less experienced drivers.
Parking in disabled spaces
Who park in disabled spaces he will risk fines of up to 660 euros for motorbikes and 990 for cars.
Animal abandonment
Finally, another topic that affects us closely: the prison for those who abandon animals on the street. If this abandonment causes accidents, this aggravating circumstance will also be contested.
