New, significantly higher traffic fines have come into effect in the Turkish-occupied north of Cyprus, with tougher penalties introduced for a wide range of road traffic offences.
The revised schedule includes higher fines for driving without a licence, using a mobile phone while driving, refusing to provide a breath sample, speeding and drink-driving.
The highest penalty has been set at €2,586 (TRY 141,786) for operating a taxi without the required Type “T” operating licence.
€1,293 fine for major offences
A fine of €1,293 (TRY 70,893) now applies to several serious offences, including:
- Driving without a valid licence.
- Refusing to provide a breath sample during an alcohol test.
- Using a mobile phone while driving.
- Driving a vehicle without the owner’s permission.
Higher penalties for drink-driving
Drivers found with a blood alcohol level between 50 and 100 mg face a fine of €646 (TRY 35,446).
Where alcohol levels exceed 100 mg, the penalty increases to €1,294 (TRY 70,893).
Speeding and other violations
Penalties for speeding have also increased.
Drivers exceeding the speed limit by 20 to 40 km/h face a fine of €129 (TRY 7,089).
Those exceeding the limit by more than 40 km/h face a fine of €323 (TRY 17,723).
Running a red light and failing to wear a seat belt now each carry a fine of €259 (TRY 14,178).
Other revised traffic fines
The updated penalties also include:
- Driving an unregistered vehicle: €129 (TRY 7,089)
- Dangerous driving: €258 (TRY 14,178)
- Driving under the influence of medication: €647 (TRY 35,446)
- Failing to give way to emergency vehicles using sirens: €194 (TRY 10,633)
- Violating number plate regulations: €129 (TRY 7,089)
- Driving without a valid roadworthiness inspection: €129 (TRY 7,089)
- Failing to carry a driving licence during a police check: €64 (TRY 3,544)
- Driving with a defective or excessively noisy exhaust: €194 (TRY 10,633)
The revised fines are now in force across the Turkish-occupied north and form part of updated road traffic regulations aimed at improving road safety.
Also read: 17-year-old succumbs to injuries after traffic collision
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