By Marios Christofi
Since the official implementation of the photo certification system on January 1, 2022, a staggering total of 132,982 out-of-court complaints have been filed. These complaints shed light on a concerning number of 134,085 offenses committed by drivers, painting a vivid picture of the state of traffic violations in our community.
The police department emphasizes that while this number is high, it is essential to consider that payment deadlines may not have expired for some of these summonses.
According to reliable data obtained from the Police, the majority of these offenses, reaching a count of 108,324, involve drivers exceeding the designated speed limits. It seems that the need for speed continues to plague our roads, endangering the safety of all those who share them.
Another significant offense documented in the complaints, amounting to 7,069 cases, pertains to drivers who flagrantly violated traffic lights, disregarding the red signal and putting themselves and others at risk.
Equally troubling is the revelation that 17,707 drivers have been reported for violating traffic signals marked by white lines. These markings serve as important guidelines to maintain order and safety on our roadways, yet numerous individuals seem to disregard their significance.
In today's technology-driven world, it appears that the temptation to use mobile phones while driving remains prevalent. A notable 617 complaints have been lodged against drivers who engaged in the dangerous practice of no hands-free driving, utilizing their mobile devices behind the wheel.
Furthermore, an additional 368 complaints have been registered against those who failed to wear protective helmets, neglected to fasten their seat belts, or engaged in various distracting activities while driving, beyond the use of mobile phones. It is disheartening to witness such a disregard for basic safety measures that are in place to safeguard lives.
Shockingly, the cumulative total of unpaid summonses currently stands at a staggering 60,510 cases. The police department emphasizes that while this number is high, it is essential to consider that payment deadlines may not have expired for some of these summonses. Nevertheless, this serves as a reminder of the need for drivers to fulfill their legal obligations promptly and responsibly.
Regarding the question of whether any drivers have faced prosecution for unpaid bailiffs, the Police confirmed that no legal action has been taken thus far. However, it is worth noting that the authorities are diligently preparing the necessary files to present before the Court, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to address this issue effectively.
As the numbers continue to rise, it is crucial for both authorities and drivers alike to recognize the significance of adhering to traffic regulations and safety protocols. It is only through collective effort and responsible behavior on the roads that we can strive to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
[This article was translated from its Greek original]
