New updates to Italy's road traffic code: What you need to know

[Marku]

There's some major news coming from Italy that's bound to shake things up for drivers, bikers, and e-scooter enthusiasts alike. The latest amendments to Italy's Road Traffic Code are introducing a slew of changes aimed at reducing accidents and ensuring safer roads for everyone – including people, animals, and the environment.

First off, these updates aren't just for car drivers; they apply to motorcycles and e-scooters too. The buzz about these changes started around mid-March 2024, and details are becoming clearer as we move forward. Let's dive into what these entail:

Stricter Penalties for Driving Under Influence​

One of the most significant updates is the introduction of tougher penalties for those caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Now, just testing positive in a drug test is enough to get you in trouble, marking a significant shift towards stricter enforcement.

Furthermore, driving under the influence of certain psychoactive substances, including some prescription medications that could impair your driving ability, could land you in hot water.

Alcohol Limits and Sanctions​

For those with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over 0.8 g/l, expect more severe consequences. Offenders will now have to steer clear of alcohol for two to three years before driving and may only drive vehicles equipped with an alcohol interlock device.

Additionally, if you have less than 20 points on your driver's license, prepare for a week-long suspension. And for those under 10 points? The suspension extends to 15 days. These penalties also apply to other infractions like using your phone while driving, not wearing seat belts, or using child seats improperly.

Motorcycle and E-Scooter Regulations​

The rules for motorbikes on highways have changed too. Motorcycles with a thermal engine over 120 cc and electric motorcycles with at least 6 kW power are good to go on highways and main extra-urban roads, provided the rider is 18 or older.

For new drivers holding a B license, the period before you can drive higher-capacity vehicles has been extended from one to three years, with a new maximum power limit set for certain vehicle categories.

E-Scooters and Bicycles​

Big news for e-scooter fans: you'll need to have insurance and a license plate, and wearing a helmet becomes mandatory. Plus, indicators and brakes on both wheels are required, with hefty fines for non-compliance.

E-scooters can't be parked on sidewalks, and rental scooters must have automatic locking mechanisms for restricted areas. Riding e-scooters is limited to urban roads with a maximum speed of 50 km/h, and they're not allowed on bike paths or pedestrian areas.

For cyclists, overtaking is now only permitted when there's at least 1.5 meters of lateral distance from the vehicle being overtaken.

Technology and Enforcement​

Technological advancements mean that multiple infractions can now be detected by a single device, and remote monitoring tools are getting an upgrade. Highway and main road cameras can now sanction drivers if an officer confirms the infraction within a specific timeframe or if violations are seen in real-time.

That's a lot to digest, but the gist is clear: Italy is getting serious about road safety. Whether you're living in Italy or planning a visit, staying informed about these changes is crucial for a safe and hassle-free experience on the road.