Naples: "Cell phone use is the most common violation," said Naples Municipal Police Commander Ciro Esposito. The first fine in Italy based on the new Highway Code was issued in Naples.
The first fine was issued this morning at 8, on Corso Umberto, one of the main streets in the city, to a driver caught using his cell phone while driving. This violation, according to the new rules in force from today, provides not only a fine but also the temporary withdrawal of the license for a period ranging from 7 to 15 days.
The fined man reacted with surprise and anger, but the checks, as announced by the City of Naples, continued throughout the morning. By 13:XNUMX PM, six tickets had been issued for the same violation, all to Italian citizens, both men and women.
12 driving licences were withdrawn this morning
"These new provisions aim to improve road safety and reduce the number of victims recorded each year in Italy," commented Esposito.
"Many motorists were not yet aware of the changes. It's essential to inform and raise awareness among the public about the current regulations," he emphasized. Esposito then added that the Municipal Police's work isn't limited to simply issuing fines: "These checks are also an opportunity to explain to citizens the importance of respecting the Highway Code, because it means improving safety for everyone."
During the morning, 12 licenses were revoked for using a cell phone while driving, a violation that, according to the commander, was expected to be encountered frequently. "The data confirms this prediction: the violations involved people between the ages of 35 and 60, evenly distributed between men and women," he explained.
Naples, with its high traffic volume, represents a particular challenge, but the Municipal Police is used to managing significant numbers: "Every year we issue around one million fines, demonstrating our constant commitment to enforcing the rules," Esposito said.
In Naples, one million fines are issued every year
The commander also highlighted how cell phone use is one of the main causes of road accidents. These new rules should not be seen as punitive, but as preventative measures. The brief suspension of driving licenses serves to immediately raise awareness of the seriousness of certain behaviors. Enforcing the rules is not a matter of punishment, but of prevention. We are convinced that compliance with the new provisions will help make a difference. Esposito concluded.
Comments (3)
The problem of using cell phones while driving is real, but I think they should also consider other causes of road accidents. It's not just a question of cell phones, but also of distraction in general.
I agree that road safety is important, but I wonder if fines are the only solution. Maybe we need stronger and clearer information campaigns for everyone.
The idea of fining those who use their cell phones while driving is a good one, but sometimes it is difficult for drivers to understand the new rules. Perhaps more information is needed before starting to fine them.