A draft of Italy's updated highway code includes provisions to fine pedestrians who are distracted by their mobile phones or other electronic devices while crossing the road. The proposed offence carries fines of €75 or more.
The transport ministry's initiative aims to enhance road safety by addressing distractions that could lead to serious accidents, particularly when drivers do not have enough time to react to a pedestrian. The measure follows several Italian court rulings that have attributed blame for accidents to careless pedestrians.
The draft code, which is expected to be approved by mid-October, also includes other electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and digital cameras in the ban. However, pedestrians will still be permitted to have hands-free conversations and use their phones in emergencies. Wearing earphones is also allowed, provided pedestrians can hear adequately in both ears.
The regulations do not apply to pedestrians walking on pavements. Additionally, the draft stipulates that pedestrians must ensure an approaching driver has seen them and intends to stop before crossing, and must not hesitate while crossing.