Crossings in Italy. Photo: columbo.photog / Shutterstock.com The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is reminding travelers going to Italy to exercise particular caution when walking near roads, especially in larger cities.
According to the latest travel advice, which comes amid the latest traffic regulations in the country, traffic can be busy, fast and chaotic, and drivers do not always stop for pedestrians even when they are legally required to do so.
Travelers should use designated pedestrian crossings whenever possible. The FCDO notes that pedestrians can be fined for crossing a road when they are within 100 meters of a pedestrian crossing but choose not to use it.
Even when the pedestrian signal is green, travelers should remain alert. The FCDO warns that the green pedestrian signal can still allow cars to turn right onto the crossing, meaning pedestrians should check for approaching vehicles before crossing.
The travel advice also recommends extra caution in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas, including road underpasses.
The FCDO further reminds travelers that emergency exits in vehicle tunnels are intended for emergencies only. They should not be used as pedestrian routes unless travelers need to leave their vehicle during an emergency.