The roads in Cyprus have dangerous conditions, with cars and motorcycles driving at excessive speeds and not following traffic rules. The country has a higher rate of fatalities on urban roads and amongst pedestrians compared to other EU countries. The main issues contributing to the problem are problematic training, lack of respect for other road users, and lack of traffic rule enforcement.
The Police announced an awareness week and stricter checks on distracted driving, particularly the use of mobile phones while driving, to reduce serious and fatal injuries in road traffic collisions and raise awareness among drivers. Nationwide traffic checks will take place from June 2 to June 9, 2024. Driver distraction is a significant factor in road accidents, limiting reaction time in emergencies. Studies show that using a mobile phone while driving reduces maintaining correct position, speed, reaction time, judgment, and overall perception of traffic movement. Driver distraction was the primary cause of fatal and serious road traffic collisions from 2021 to 2023. Zero tolerance will be enforced for traffic violations that contribute to fatal and serious accidents.
A 13-year-old boy was seriously injured in Limassol in an accident involving a scooter, prompting a deputy to suggest banning scooters if safety measures are not enforced.
Fact: Police in Limassol handed out hundreds of fines over the bank holiday weekend, including 20 fines for drink driving and 134 fines for other traffic violations.
Fact: Out-of-court fines for traffic violations in Cyprus will largely remain the same, but offenders will have more time to pay them, with the deadline for payment increasing from 45 to 60 days.