Italy Proposes €75 Fines for Pedestrians Distracted by Phones

Italy is moving to penalize pedestrians who cross the street while distracted by mobile phones. The Italian government has proposed updates to the Codice della Strada, the nation's highway code, to introduce financial penalties for those whose inattention could lead to traffic accidents.

Under the proposed measures, pedestrians caught using a mobile phone while crossing the road could face fines starting at €75. The scope of the ban extends beyond smartphones to include other electronic devices, such as tablets, laptops, and digital cameras. However, the proposed regulations specify that these fines would not apply to pedestrians walking on a pavement.

Road Safety Context

This proposal is part of a broader, long-term effort by the Italian government to tighten the Codice della Strada. By updating these regulations, officials aim to modernize road safety standards and reduce the frequency of accidents caused by pedestrian inattention. The move reflects a growing concern over "smombies"—smartphone zombies—whose lack of situational awareness creates hazards for both themselves and motorists.

Shifting Accountability

If implemented, the law would mark a significant shift in legal accountability on Italian roads. While legislation has long targeted distracted drivers with heavy fines and license suspensions, this measure extends financial and legal responsibility to the pedestrian. By treating pedestrian distraction with the same seriousness as driver distraction, the government seeks to create a culture of shared responsibility for road safety.

Implementation Status

While the core components of the proposal have been outlined, the final implementation status remains pending. Current reports indicate the measure was part of a draft expected for approval by mid-October 2026. Observers are now watching to see if the proposal survives the legislative process and how the government intends to enforce such fines in real-time traffic environments.