Is driving in the city simpler? It is often believed that it is easier and safer than driving on rural roads or highways. Speeds are lower, trips are shorter, and roads are familiar. Mistake. Confirmation comes from the most recent ACI data. On Italian roads, 73 out of 100 accidents occur in urban areas, 5 on highways, and 22 on rural roads. What are the main risks in the city? Intersections, roundabouts, sudden lane changes, pedestrians appearing suddenly, scooters, and bicycles often traveling against traffic. Attentive and cautious driving is needed, but just glancing at city traffic reveals risky maneuvers and frequent violations of the Highway Code that – who knows why – seem less serious in the city.
What are the most common violations? Let's look at just a few for now. Perhaps you will recognize some behaviors that are not entirely unfamiliar to you.
In the city, seat belts are not necessary, especially for those sitting in the back seat. We already explained why they are important in an article some time ago (here). Why they are also important in the city is quickly explained: Euro NCAP tests show that severe consequences for cars and passengers can result from side or front impacts even at speeds of 50 and 64 km/h, which are effectively city speeds.
Yellow light, you accelerate to avoid being stopped by the red light. Yellow is a color that can cause confusion, but its meaning is simple: cars must hurry if they have already entered the intersection; otherwise, they must stop. This is established by the Highway Code (Article 41): "(...) vehicles cannot cross the same designated stopping points (...) unless they are so close to them when the yellow light comes on that they can no longer stop in sufficiently safe conditions; in which case, they must promptly clear the intersection area with due caution." For offenders, a fine of up to 550 euros and a deduction of 6 points from their license.
Double-parked car. Who hasn't given in to the temptation at least once? Yet it is a behavior that contributes to traffic congestion and driver stress, not to mention those who, parked correctly, find themselves blocked for long minutes. Fines and forced removal (in case of obstruction or danger to traffic) are the penalties provided by the Highway Code.
