Newsroom
Drivers caught holding a mobile phone while driving could soon face stricter financial penalties if a proposal by the Police, expected to be submitted for legislation, becomes law.
Currently, the fixed penalty for this offense is €150, along with 2-4 penalty points. If the offense is repeated within three years, the fine increases to €300.
For cases that go to court, penalties can include up to one year in prison and a fine of up to €3,000. Professional drivers face even harsher consequences, with maximum penalties doubled and their licenses revoked.
Why stricter penalties?
The Police are set to present their proposal at the next meeting of the Road Safety Council, which includes representatives from six ministries, the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (ETEK), the Public Works Department, and the Road Transport Department.
The proposal, which Transport Minister and Council Chairman Alexis Vafeadis supports, is based on concerns over traffic accidents and fatalities. Studies have shown that a significant number of drivers involved in collisions were holding a mobile phone at the time.
Speed limit reduction
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Works announced today that 30 km/h speed limit zones will be introduced in urban areas where extra caution is needed to prevent accidents, such as near schools.
Municipalities will be responsible for determining which areas will be included in these new speed limit zones.
