Road control in the country has been significantly strengthened, and the new changes to the Road Traffic Act are already starting to affect the behavior of drivers. This was stated in the "Interview in NOVA News" by the expert from the State Road Safety Agency Boyko Ranovski.
„All the measures adopted in the law are aimed at making drivers more careful and patient. We hope everyone will comply with the changes“, Ranovski pointed out.
According to the expert, a significant part of the new measures includes expanding the technical capacity for speed control. The Ministry of Internal Affairs has purchased over 180 portable speed cameras, which are already in use throughout the country, along with toll cameras.
“Control is extremely tightened everywhere on the roads in the country“, Ranovski stressed.
According to data from the State Road Safety Agency, even with a speed reduction of 1 km/h, serious accidents decrease by about 4%.
“We should not drive at the maximum permissible speed – it is only recommended“, Ranovski noted.
The effect of the introduced measures is expected to be reflected in the national statistics on road injuries in the coming months.
Guest workers
Ranovski emphasized that the new regulations provide for strict sanctions for violations by guest workers.
“For any offense - except for speeding - the driver's license and vehicle registration are subject to withdrawal until the fine is paid“, he explained.
The expert explained that there is still no mechanism for handing out electronic tickets at border crossings.
New rules for pedestrians too
Some of the legal changes also affect pedestrians. In populated areas, pedestrians on a pedestrian crossing are required to look around and assess the speed of passing cars. Pedestrians can signal their intention to cross while still on the sidewalk – this obliges drivers to let them pass, he emphasized.
A new ban has also been introduced: pedestrians are not allowed to cross while using a mobile phone or other mobile device. The fine for this violation is 100 leva.
Campaign for September 15: Reflective bracelets for first-graders
On the occasion of the first school day, the State Road Safety Agency, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Education are organizing a joint campaign to increase the safety of children on the road.
„We have prepared reflective bracelets for first-graders. We are paying particular attention to parents – "They should take more care to protect their children," said Boyko Ranovski.
The aim of the initiative is to encourage the use of reflective elements, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, especially in the dark.