Driving violations in Greece in 2024
In Greece, the Road Traffic Code includes numerous violations that can lead to the confiscation of the driver’s license, vehicle documents, and license plates. Some of these violations include:
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Driving in lanes designated for public transport
- Overtaking and crossing a continuous line
- Disregarding the signals of the police officer or the traffic light
- Stopping on the highway in unauthorized places
- Driving in the opposite direction
- Possessing radar detectors, even if they are not in use
- Parking in spaces reserved for disabled persons
- Not using a seatbelt or a helmet for protection
- Performing dangerous maneuvers
- Throwing objects
Speeding and Drunk Driving Penalties in Romania
Exceeding the legal speed limit by more than 30 km/h can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license in Romania. The maximum speed on the highway is 130 km/h, but there may be restrictions down to 80 km/h depending on road conditions. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 km/h results in a fine of 100 euros, while exceeding it by more than 30 km/h incurs a fine of 350 euros and a 60-day license suspension.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is also severely punished. Blood alcohol concentration between 0.50-0.80 g/l or breath alcohol concentration between 0.25-0.40 mg/l results in a fine of 200 euros and vehicle immobilization. Between 0.80-1.10 g/l in blood or 0.40-0.60 mg/l in breath, the fine is 700 euros, the license is suspended for 90 days, and the vehicle is immobilized. For over 1.10 g/l in blood or 0.60 mg/l in breath, the penalty includes a minimum 2-month imprisonment, a 1,200 euro fine, a 180-day license suspension, and license plate retention.
Driving regulations and penalties in Greece
When driving in Greece, it is important to adhere to the local regulations to avoid hefty fines and penalties. In accordance with the entry conditions for Greece as stated by the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, any driver caught driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration of over 1.10 g/l in the blood will face severe consequences. This includes a 5-year license suspension, a minimum of 6 months in prison, a fine of 2,000 euros, as well as the confiscation of license plates and vehicle immobilization.
Parking in spots reserved for persons with disabilities is strictly prohibited in Greece. Both local and foreign drivers risk having their documents and license plates confiscated for up to 2 months if they occupy these designated spaces. Illegally parking in general can result in fines ranging from 40 to 150 euros, along with the confiscation of license plates for 20 days and the payment of parking fees for that period.
Blocking ramps for disabled persons or parking in their designated spots will lead to immediate confiscation of license plates and vehicle immobilization.
Driving Offenses and Penalties in Greece
Driving in Greece comes with strict rules and regulations that must be followed to avoid penalties. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and the suspension of your driving license, license plates, and registration certificate for a period of 60 days.
Examples of Penalties under the Greek Traffic Code:
1. Not wearing a seatbelt or motorcycle helmet – suspension of license, plates, and registration certificate for 60 days.
2. Using a mobile phone while driving without a Bluetooth device or special holder – same penalties as above, for 60 days.
3. Running a red light – fine of 700 euros and license suspension for 60 days.
4. Ignoring the “STOP” sign at an intersection – fine of 700 euros, license suspension, plates, and registration certificate for 20 days.
5. Performing dangerous maneuvers – fine of 700 euros, license suspension for 30 days, and plates and certificate for 10 days.
6. Using the emergency lane – suspension of license, plates, and certificate for 60 days.
Driving Laws in Greece
Truck and bus drivers are prohibited from using the left lane on highways in Greece, with violators facing a 60-day suspension of their driver’s license.
Throwing objects or substances out of a vehicle window is also strictly forbidden in Greece. Those caught doing so will have their driver’s license, vehicle registration, and license plates confiscated for a period of 60 days.
Furthermore, the use or possession of radar detectors by drivers is illegal in Greece. Offenders will be fined 2,000 euros and have their driver’s license suspended for 30 days, along with their vehicle registration and license plates for 60 days.
Even though the use of radar detection devices is decreasing, due to the availability of travel apps that can locate police presence, the ban remains in place. Additionally, bringing in fuel in containers exceeding the legal limits in Greece is prohibited and will result in a fine, as well as potential criminal charges for smuggling.
Driving in Greece: Important Information for Romanian Citizens
Driving in Greece can be an enjoyable experience, but there are some important things that Romanian citizens need to keep in mind to avoid any issues with the authorities. Firstly, it is essential to be aware of the high price of gasoline in Greece, which is among the highest in the European Union.
In case of an accident, no matter how minor, it is mandatory to report the incident to the police. Drivers must fill out a report form provided by their insurance company, take note of the details of the other vehicle involved, and contact the Romanian partner of the insurance company in Greece. It is crucial to keep all payment documents to show the insurance company upon returning to Romania.
Romanian citizens who are residents or have a domicile in Greece must immediately register their vehicles with Romanian license plates with the local authorities. Using these vehicles without completing this registration is strictly prohibited and can result in hefty fines as well as the confiscation of the vehicle.
While Romanian tourists can drive in Greece with Romanian license plates for a limited time, it is important to be aware of the regulations and ensure compliance to avoid any legal issues during their stay in the country.
Driving Regulations in Greece
When traveling to Greece, it’s important to be aware of the strict traffic rules in the country. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Safe Driving
Drivers in Greece are required to pay full attention to the road at all times. Smoking, adjusting the radio, using a mobile phone, or any other distractions can result in fines.
Mobile Phone Use while Driving
It is illegal to hold a mobile phone while driving in Greece. Drivers must use hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth, if they need to make a call.
Headphones
The use of headphones for audio and video equipment is prohibited while driving in Greece.
Driving Under the Influence
The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in Greece is 0.5 g/l. For drivers with less than 2 years of experience, those driving official vehicles, and motorcyclists, the limit is 0.2 g/l. Driving under the influence of drugs is strictly prohibited.
Pedestrian Rules
While walking in Greece, pedestrians should always use designated crosswalks and follow traffic signals to ensure their safety.
Rules for Pedestrians and Drivers
If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the road. People driving or riding a bicycle, scooter, or motorcycle should stay on the right side.
Child Transportation in Cars
Children under 3 years old must be in an approved car seat. Children under 12 years old and under 1.35 meters tall should use a car seat or booster seat. Once a child is over 12 years old and 1.35 meters tall, a seatbelt is sufficient. If a child is in a rear-facing seat, the airbag should be deactivated.
No Smoking in the Car
Smoking is prohibited in the car if there is a child under 12 years old present. The fine is substantial, and the driver’s license could be revoked.
Driving in Greece – Intersections, Roundabouts, Overtaking
At intersections, give way to vehicles on the right unless there is a different sign. In roundabouts, vehicles already in the circle have the right of way unless indicated otherwise. Overtaking tram stops is allowed.
Parking Regulations
Parking is prohibited within 3 meters of a fire hydrant, 5 meters from an intersection/STOP sign/traffic light, and 15 meters from a railway crossing/station. Police can remove plates for improper parking.
Rules for Scooters, Motorcycles, and Bicycles
Wearing a helmet is mandatory for drivers and passengers. Lighting is required during the day and night. Transporting passengers on a scooter/motorcycle is only allowed with a special seat. For bicycles, lighting and a bell are mandatory. Riding side by side is not allowed.
Radar Detection Rules
The use and possession of radar detection equipment is prohibited.
Road Signage
Warning signs have a yellow background, not white. Bilingual signs (Greek and English) on main and secondary roads. Blue signs mark the entrance/exit of settlements, according to Nikana.gr.
Ungarians react quickly after Corvinul knocks Paksi out of Europa League
After a thrilling match, Corvinul managed to knock Paksi out of the Europa League, leaving Hungarian fans disappointed. The game was intense, with both teams giving their best to secure a spot in the next round.
Despite the loss, Paksi fans showed their support for the team, hoping for better results in the future. The match was closely followed by football enthusiasts all over the country, with many expressing their disappointment on social media.
Corvinul’s victory was well-deserved, and they are now one step closer to the Europa League title. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the team will perform in the upcoming matches, hoping for more exciting games and memorable moments.
