New amendments to the Highway Code, approved by the Parliament in June, have come into force since August 5. The new rules significantly toughen the measures against violators, especially for drivers caught driving under the influence of alcohol.
According to the changes, any driver who is found for the second time with a blood alcohol level above 0.5 grams per liter (g/l), after having been previously punished for the same violation, will have their driving license permanently revoked.
Stronger measures are also foreseen for drivers who organize or participate in speed races on the road, as well as for those who perform dangerous maneuvers, repeatedly change lanes without signaling, or display aggressive behavior that violates the safety of other road users. For these violations, fines have been increased and range from 20 thousand to 60 thousand lekë.
The changes also affect the use of mobile phones while driving. The use of hand-held phones is now prohibited not only by drivers of vehicles, but also by those riding bicycles and motorcycles with a cubic capacity of up to 50 cc.
The changes to the Highway Code also affect new drivers. For those who have obtained a category B driving license in the last two years, zero tolerance for alcohol is applied. In addition, special speed limits have been set for this category, with a maximum of 90 km/h on highways