The new Highway Code, recently finally approved by the Senate, will come into effect after 15 days from the President of the Republic’s signature and publication in the Official Gazette. This major regulatory reform aims to improve road safety through a series of more stringent measures in accordance with European standards.
Let’s find out together how parameters and penalties change:
Alcohol and Drugs:
- Reduced blood alcohol content limit to 0.5 g/l, with fines ranging from 573 to 2,170 euros for those who exceed the limits, and license suspension from 3 to 6 months, if a blood alcohol content above 1.5 grams per liter is detected, license suspension from 6 to 12 months, with fines up to 3,200 euros.
- Mandatory “alcolock” devices for repeat offenders, which prevent vehicle ignition if blood alcohol level is above the limit.
- In the case of drug use, license withdrawal and driving ban for three years.
Use of the Phone:
- Fines of 250 to 1,400 euros for using a phone while driving, with license suspension of up to 3 months in case of a repeat offense.
- Driver’s license suspension days doubled if phone use causes an accident.
Highway Safety:
- Speed limits confirmed at 130 km/h, with fines from 173 to 694 euros for exceeding between 10 and 40 km/h over the limit, and license suspension for speeds over 40 km/h in excess.
- Increased controls through tutors and speed cameras on all major highways.
Electric Scooters:
- Speed limit of 25 km/h for electric scooters, with helmet, license plate and insurance requirement.
- Prohibition on sidewalks and requirement of lights and beacons.
Road Education:
- Strengthening traffic education programs in schools, with a focus on safety and compliance with new regulations.
Animal abandonment:
- Harsher penalties for those who abandon animals in the street, with imprisonment of two to seven years if this causes accidents.
These measures are designed to reduce accidents and improve safety for all road users, while providing a clear picture of penalties and limits to be observed.
Full details on the website of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport
22 November 2024
