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Italy proposes fines for pedestrians distracted by phones
The Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport is drafting amendments to the Highway Code to penalize pedestrians who use electronic devices while crossing the road. The proposed regulation aims to reduce traffic accidents caused by distraction, particularly in cases where drivers lack sufficient time to react to unpredictable pedestrian movements.
Under the draft, pedestrians using smartphones, tablets, laptops, or digital cameras while on the roadway could face fines starting at 75 euros. The ban applies specifically to the act of crossing or walking on the roadway and does not extend to using devices while on the sidewalk. Exceptions are made for emergency calls, hands-free conversations, and the use of headphones, provided the individual can still clearly hear ambient traffic sounds with both ears.
The proposal also introduces new responsibilities for pedestrians, requiring them to ensure drivers have seen them and intend to stop before stepping onto the road. Additionally, the reform includes stricter penalties for drivers using mobile phones, with repeat offenders facing fines up to 2,588 euros and potential license suspensions. The final text is expected to be approved by mid-October following a consultation period.
Entities
Giorgia Meloni · Italy · Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport · Ministry of Transport
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The regulation would allow hands-free calls and the use of headphones if they do not impede hearing traffic sounds. www.informacion.es · www.farodevigo.es
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Ministry of Transport is proposing a reform to the Highway Code to improve road safety. www.informacion.es · www.farodevigo.es
- [● 3 SOURCES] Proposed fines for pedestrians using electronic devices while crossing the street start at 75 euros. www.informacion.es · www.farodevigo.es
- [● 2 SOURCES] A 2019 ruling assigned 80% of accident responsibility to a pedestrian distracted by a mobile phone. www.informacion.es · www.farodevigo.es
- [● 3 SOURCES] The ban covers smartphones, laptops, tablets, and digital cameras. www.informacion.es · www.farodevigo.es