Italy’s government is moving forward with modifications to its highway code designed to enhance road safety by imposing penalties on pedestrians who operate mobile devices while crossing streets. The provision is contained in a draft update anticipated to receive approval by mid-October and would levy fines starting at €75 for those caught using phones during street crossings.
The regulation is part of a broader effort to mitigate accidents caused by driver inability to react appropriately to inattentive pedestrians. The measure extends beyond mobile phones to encompass laptops, tablets, and digital cameras. Nevertheless, the code permits hands-free communication during crossings and permits earphone usage provided pedestrians maintain adequate hearing in both ears. Pedestrians would retain the ability to use phones during emergencies. The restrictions would not apply to individuals walking along pavements.
The updated code additionally requires pedestrians to confirm that approaching drivers have noticed them and intend to stop before crossing, and prohibits unnecessary delays in transit. Italy joins a growing number of jurisdictions implementing such regulations. Lithuania enacted similar penalties in 2018, followed by Honolulu in 2017 and Japan’s Yamato City in 2020.
Beyond pedestrian rules, the revised highway code encompasses stricter driver regulations, including enhanced penalties for mobile phone usage while driving, with fines reaching €2,588 for repeat violators and potential license suspension lasting one to three months. The ministry had initially considered age-based restrictions for drivers 85 and older but withdrew this provision following public opposition at the direction of Transport Minister Matteo Salvini.
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