Italy launches toll refunds for drivers stuck in construction‑caused traffic jams

Italy’s National Traffic Authority (ART) introduced a new rule, effective 1 June 2026, that allows motorists to claim refunds on tolls when they are delayed on paid highways because of construction‑related traffic jams. Under the scheme, drivers who are held up for up to two hours receive a 50 % refund of the toll paid, and those delayed for three hours or more are entitled to a full refund. The refund applies only when the congestion is caused by a construction site; incidents such as accidents, emergency works or severe weather are excluded.

Applicants must keep their toll receipts and submit proof of the extended travel time via the operator’s online portal; a unified app is planned for later in the year but is not yet available. Consumer‑rights groups warned that highway operators might offset the cost of refunds by raising toll rates in the future, a concern echoed by officials who noted the measure strives to protect travelers but could have financial side‑effects.

The policy makes Italy the first EU country to offer such compensation, aiming to improve driver satisfaction on the roughly 7 000 km of toll‑charged motorways that many German vacationers use each year.