New traffic rules in Greece: authorities tighten penalties for offences endangering road safety

Greek authorities have implemented a new Highway Code, introducing tougher penalties for offences that endanger safety on the national roads’ network.

According to the Embassy of Moldova in Greece, the new rules include reducing speed limits in populated areas.

“On many city streets and in residential neighborhoods, the maximum speed limit has been reduced to 30 km/h, especially near schools, residential zones and areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. On main roads, the limit remains 50 km/h, unless traffic signs provide otherwise,” the embassy said.

For certain traffic infringements that pose an increased risk to road safety, the Greek authorities now impose fines ranging from 500 to 800 euros, suspend or revoke the driver’s license for a period of 60 days and may also confiscate the license plates and the vehicle registration certificate.

“In the case of serious offences, citizens may be required to cover additional costs to recover their documents and vehicle or to repatriate the vehicle to of Moldova,” the diplomatic mission underlined.

The use of a mobile phone without a hands-free system will also be punished much more severely. In the case of repeated offences, drivers may lose their license for longer periods, in addition to substantial fines. Another measure stipulates that all occupants of a car must wear seat belts and motorcyclists, as well as their passengers are required to wear protective helmets.

“Checks related to alcohol and drug use have been intensified. For most drivers, the legal blood alcohol limit remains 0.5‰, but penalties are much harsher if this limit is exceeded or if the driver causes an accident. At the same time, failing to yield to pedestrians or running a red light are considered among the most serious offences and can lead to severe penalties,” the embassy emphasized.

At the same time, drivers are required to carry in their vehicles a reflective warning triangle, a reflective vest, a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher that is within its validity period.