Italy’s Legislative Push for Enhanced Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety
In a significant move to bolster road safety for pedestrians and cyclists, Italy’s Parliament has introduced Law Proposal 2523, titled “Safety, Development, and Promotion of Active Mobility.” This initiative aims to redefine urban mobility, prioritising the protection of vulnerable road users and fostering a culture of active transportation across Italian cities.
Key Provisions of Law Proposal 2523
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Hierarchy of Mobility Users: The law establishes a clear distinction between “stronger users”—those operating heavier, faster vehicles—and “active mobility users,” such as pedestrians and cyclists. In the event of an accident, the operator of the heavier or faster vehicle is presumed to bear greater responsibility, aligning with practices in countries like the United Kingdom.
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Infrastructure Enhancements: To create safer environments, the proposal mandates:
- Sidewalks with a minimum width of 2 meters.
- A requirement for vehicles to overtake cyclists with at least a 1.5-meter lateral distance.
- Facilitated installation of raised pedestrian crossings.
- Mandatory sensors on heavy vehicles to detect pedestrians and cyclists in blind spots.
- Enhanced tools for establishing low-traffic zones in urban and school areas.
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Governance and Funding: The proposal introduces:
- The Interministerial Committee for Active Mobility Policies (CIPOMA).
- A dedicated Directorate-General within the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.
- A National Fund for Active Mobility with an initial allocation of €300 million over three years.
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Education and Communication: The law emphasizes:
- Strengthening education on active mobility.
- Integrating safe driving and sustainable mobility messages into vehicle advertising.
- Allocating 5% of public vehicle advertising expenditures to institutional campaigns on road safety and sustainable mobility.
Political and Public Support
The proposal has garnered bipartisan support, reflecting its broad appeal across the political spectrum. Notably, Hon. Davide Bergamini, President of the Parliamentary Intergroup “Cycling Mobility – Italy on Bike,” has expressed openness to discussing this proposal alongside others, emphasizing the shared goal of enhancing road safety for vulnerable users. (tuttobiciweb.it)
Conclusion
Law Proposal 2523 represents a comprehensive effort to reshape Italy’s urban mobility landscape, placing a strong emphasis on the safety and promotion of active transportation modes. By implementing these measures, Italy aims to create more livable, sustainable, and safer urban environments for all residents.