Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Parliament on the new Highway Code

The proposed legislation implements stricter penalties for various traffic violations and introduces the concept of repeat offenses.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is addressing Parliament today regarding the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport’s bill for a revised Highway Code, which is set for a vote.

This new Highway Code features significant reforms, including tougher penalties for different offenses and the definition of recidivism.

In his address, Mr. Mitsotakis aims to underscore the government’s dedication to enhancing road safety and reducing traffic-related accidents, which are key objectives for his administration.

At the beginning of his speech, Mr. Mitsotakis noted the alarming rates of traffic accidents in Greece, often attributed to factors like drunk driving, mobile phone usage, and running red lights. “We rank among the highest in Europe for traffic fatalities. Regrettably, the trend is increasing, with some regions faring much worse. Today, we must make a responsible decision,” he stated.

According to Mr. Mitsotakis, the new Highway Code establishes a clearer framework for violations, imposing stricter penalties based on the level of danger and distinguishing between first-time and repeat offenders.
Key Features of the New Highway Code

Two pivotal elements of the new Highway Code are:

– Enhanced penalties for repeat offenses,
– Focus on penalizing the driver instead of the vehicle, marking a shift from previous policies.

The legal provisions will also be more severe for drivers involved in fatal traffic accidents, particularly if they were driving without a license.

Under the new regulations:

– Those exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h for the first time will face a €700 fine and a 60-day license suspension.

– After the third offense, the fine will escalate to €2,000 and a two-year license suspension.

– Drivers involved in fatal accidents may face prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years, with potential life imprisonment for multiple fatalities.