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World
Italy plans fines of at least €75 for pedestrians crossing while using a phone
Herz — World Desk · · 30s summary · 2 min read
The essentials
Italy plans to fine pedestrians at least €75 if they look at a mobile phone while crossing the road, according to The Guardian. The proposed measure, intended to reduce distraction-related accidents, would also cover laptops, tablets and digital cameras, but would not apply on pavements. Hands-free calls, emergency phone use and headphones would remain permitted under certain conditions. The new highway code is expected to be approved in mid-October. It would also increase penalties for repeat offenders who use phones while driving.
- The proposed fine would be at least €75.
- The rule would apply only while crossing the road, not on pavements.
- Laptops, tablets and digital cameras would also be covered.
- The new highway code is expected to be approved in mid-October.
What Italy’s proposal would change
Italy’s proposed new highway code would fine pedestrians who look at a mobile phone while crossing the road, according to The Guardian. The measure is intended to reduce accidents linked to distraction.
The fine would be at least €75. The legislation is expected to be approved in mid-October.
The restriction would also cover laptops, tablets and digital cameras used while crossing.
It would not apply to people using these devices while walking on a pavement.
Uses that would remain permitted
The proposal would allow hands-free phone conversations and phone use in an emergency.
Headphones would remain permitted if pedestrians can hear properly with both ears.
Before crossing, pedestrians would have to make sure an approaching driver had seen them and intended to stop. They would then be expected to cross without lingering.
Court decisions in the background
The measure follows several Italian court decisions that assigned part of the responsibility for accidents to pedestrians deemed careless.
Similar rules elsewhere
- 2017Honolulu was considered the first city in the world to enforce similar rules.
- 2018Lithuania introduced fines for using a phone or engaging in another distracting activity while crossing.
- 2020The Japanese city of Yamato introduced similar rules.
- Mid-OctoberItaly’s proposed new highway code is expected to be approved.
Tougher penalties for drivers
The proposal would also increase penalties for drivers who use a phone. Repeat offenders could face fines of up to €2,588.
Repeat offenders could also have their driving licence suspended for between one and three months.
Restrictions on older drivers removed
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