Legislators Push for Enhanced Road Safety Measures

After months of deliberation, parliamentary members have initiated significant revisions to the Road Traffic Act, aiming to bolster road safety and streamline enforcement.The impetus for these changes follows a series of tragic incidents, including the death of a 12-year-old, underscoring the urgent need for updated regulations.

Expanded Enforcement Capabilities: CCTV, Electronic Ticketing, and Police authority

The proposed amendments grant municipalities greater authority in traffic enforcement. Municipal CCTV cameras will now monitor vehicle speeds,enabling mayors and municipal police officers to issue electronic tickets for violations. Furthermore, law enforcement will have the power to stop vehicles to verify identification and driving licenses, enhancing their ability to address traffic infractions promptly.

Speed Limit Adjustments and Technological Integration

Government proposals include reducing the maximum highway speed from 140 km/h to 130 km/h, and from 120 km/h to 110 km/h on other roads. Additionally, the amendments introduce 30 km/h speed limits in areas prone to accidents, aiming to protect vulnerable road users. The toll system’s cameras will also be utilized to detect average speeds, further deterring speeding.

These changes come at a time when road safety is a growing concern globally. According to the World Health Organization, road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5-29 years. Implementing stricter speed limits and leveraging technology for enforcement are crucial steps in mitigating these risks.

Vehicle Categorization and Harmonization with European Directives

Aligning with European Directives, the revised act clarifies the categorization of vehicles, specifically addressing wheeled tractors. These vehicles will now be subject to the same control checks as trucks, ensuring consistent safety standards across vehicle types.

Provisional Licenses for 17-Year-Olds: A Gradual Approach to Driving

One notable amendment allows 17-year-olds to obtain a driver’s license,albeit with restrictions. Until thay reach the age of majority, these drivers must be accompanied by a licensed adult, providing a supervised learning habitat and promoting responsible driving habits.

Streamlined Processes: Digitalization and Online Fine payment

Proposed by Bozhidar Bozhanov and other members of PP-DB, the amendments aim to modernize administrative processes. This includes replacing windscreen stickers with automated reports in centralized registers and enabling online fine payments, eliminating the need for in-person transactions. Control bodies will also be equipped to issue electronic tickets and penalties to drivers with more than five outstanding violations.

Addressing False Positives in Drug Testing

Recognizing the potential for inaccuracies in drug testing, Yavor Bozhankov, along with colleagues from PP-DB, GERB, and BSP – united Left, have proposed measures to mitigate negative consequences for drivers. They advocate for a 72-hour license suspension only when a driver undergoes a medical examination and provides samples for laboratory testing to confirm drug use. This approach aims to protect innocent drivers from undue penalties.

…limit negative consequences for drivers before their guilt is proven or rejected undoubtedly.

Divergent Proposals and Unaccepted Amendments

While several proposals have gained traction, not all amendments have been accepted. A proposal from Kostadin kostadinov’s party, which suggested expediting the sale of seized vehicles through public auctions or allocating them to budget organizations, was not approved.