Montenegro Tightens Traffic Laws to Enhance Road Safety

The Government of Montenegro has announced significant changes to road safety regulations aimed at reducing traffic fatalities and improving overall safety on the roads. During a recent session, officials approved a proposal to amend the Traffic Safety Act, which will be submitted to the Parliament for consideration. The proposal is expected to feature on the agenda of the next parliamentary session, likely during the spring session.

The new legislation introduces stricter rules for young drivers and users of electric scooters, increases monetary fines, and expands the powers of law enforcement and municipal police. According to Deputy Prime Minister for Safety Aleksa Bečić, these reforms are crucial given the alarming statistics regarding road deaths.

Bečić highlighted that the reform measures focus on four key areas: preventive-repressive activities, modernization of police operations, enhancement of road infrastructure, and strengthening the regulatory framework. He pointed out that record numbers of traffic offenses have been recorded in recent years, with 4,200 individuals arrested in 2022 for traffic violations, increasing to 4,500 in 2023, and projected to reach 7,500 by 2025.

He also noted a significant increase in testing for psychoactive substances, revealing that 50% of those tested were positive, while 25% refused testing. This data underscores the need for stricter regulations and enforcement.

For the first time, the proposed legislation clearly regulates the use of electric scooters and light electric vehicles. It includes a ban on scooter operation by individuals younger than 16 years and stipulates penalties for parents in cases of violations. Additionally, it introduces a category for young drivers under 21 years, prohibiting them from driving between midnight and 05:00, as well as from operating vehicles exceeding 80 kW in power unless accompanied by a driver with more than five years of driving experience.

The law also significantly expands police authority, allowing for the temporary seizure of vehicles from drivers who repeatedly commit serious traffic offenses. Municipal police will gain powers primarily in regulating parking and stopping vehicles. Bečić emphasized that the increase in fines is necessary, as the previous sanctions had limited preventive effects.

In a related announcement, Lazar Šćepanović, the Director of the Police Administration, stated that the new law adopts a systemic approach to traffic safety, focusing strongly on protecting citizens’ lives. He mentioned that many sanctioned drivers re-offend, making the measure of temporary vehicle seizure a crucial step in both punitive and preventive action.

“We must prioritize the protection of human life in all state policies in this area,” Šćepanović remarked. He also mentioned plans to implement average speed measurements and acquire the first stationary digital radars within the year, alongside ongoing investments in equipment and police training.

According to Ilija Janjušević, Head of the Road Traffic Safety Department, the amendments primarily aim to tighten penalties for repeat offenders. “The goal is not merely to punish but to deter further violations and raise the level of traffic culture,” he explained.

Regarding penalties, Janjušević noted that young drivers under 21 caught driving during restricted hours or with vehicles exceeding the specified power will face fines ranging from €300 to €600. Since minors cannot be held criminally responsible, parents will incur fines between €150 and €400 for violations related to underage use of electric scooters.

As Montenegro prepares to strengthen its traffic laws, the government aims to cultivate a safer environment for all road users while addressing the pressing issue of road safety in the country.