Road Safety

For information assistance only - this is NOT stated as legal fact!

Following a three year closure, the Mont Blanc tunnel linking Italy and France is open to all vehicles except those with more than four axles, those carrying dangerous goods and those which came into circulation before 1 October 1993 and do not meet the Euro 1 and 2 pollution standards. Please note the speed and vehicle distance limits signposted at the entrance and exit. Vehicles, which are forbidden from using the Mont Blanc Tunnel should use routes along the Mediterranean coast or through the Frejus Tunnel; there are, however, some restrictions on HGVs using the Frejus Tunnel. Full details of these are available on the French Government-run website: website: http://www.bison-fute.equipement.gouv.fr.

Trucks over 7,500 kilograms (75 quintali) are not allowed on Italian roads, including motorways, on Sundays from 07:00 to 24:00 hours local time. These restrictions do not apply to those trucks already granted an exception such as those carrying perishable goods and petrol supplies.

It is obligatory to use dipped headlights during the day while travelling on motorways and major roads outside cities. The same legislation also introduced a stricter limit for alcohol in the bloodstream; the limit is now 0.5 grams per litre. The use of mobile telephones in cars is prohibited except where they are fitted with speaker devices.

It is obligatory to carry at least one reflective safety jacket in a vehicle and to wear it when standing with, inspecting or repairing a stationary vehicle on a public highway.

Italian Police may stop cars from driving in mountain areas in winter if the car does not have snow chains.

On-the-spot fines' for minor traffic offences operate in Italy. These may range typically between 150 - 250 Euros. You are strongly advised to stick to the rules of the road, and/or have enough cash if you have to pay a fine. Failure to do so may seriously inconvenience your visit.

Travellers who rent cars in Italy should check the rental insurance terms carefully. Some polities will not cover an accident that does not include a third party eg a collision with a wall. Certain provisions in policies, such as fire and theft, might not apply for all regions of Italy.