cyprus road — cyprus road — Cyprus has introduced a new road traffic law that requires drivers to move their vehicles after minor collisions, a shift aimed at alleviating traffic congestion. This change comes under legislation published in the Official Gazette on April 21, 2026, following a vote by the House of Representatives.
The amendment stipulates that drivers involved in minor accidents must remove their vehicles from the roadway, provided that no one has sustained visible injuries and police intervention is not necessary. This is intended to prevent road blockages from vehicles that are not seriously damaged.
Cyprus road: When Is the Obligation to Move Vehicles Applicable?
The legal obligation to move a vehicle applies specifically in circumstances where:
- No visible injuries are present.
- Police presence is deemed unnecessary.
- The vehicles can be relocated without towing or causing additional damage.
- It is reasonable to move the vehicles given the situation.
Steps Drivers Must Take
Before relocating their vehicles, drivers are required to follow several important steps:
- Notify their insurance company without delay.
- Exchange essential information with the other involved driver, including full name, insurance policy number, driving licence number, and vehicle details.
- Photograph the scene, capturing the vehicles in their post-collision positions, registration plates, any damage, and the surrounding area.
- Share these photographs with the person specified by their insurance company.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Failing to adhere to this new requirement is considered a criminal offence, punishable by a fine of up to €1,000. Additionally, anyone who tries to coerce a driver into not moving their vehicle can also face fines of the same amount.
Once a vehicle has been moved, it must not be parked or abandoned in a manner that is illegal, dangerous, or obstructive to traffic. Authorities are empowered to remove any vehicle that violates these regulations, with the costs incurred falling on the owner. Furthermore, penalties can escalate to one year in prison or fines of up to €3,000 for serious breaches.
Advice from the Police
In light of these changes, police advise drivers who relocate their vehicles following a minor accident with no visible injuries to consult their insurance representatives before departing the scene. This ensures that all necessary documentation and procedures are properly followed.
As Cyprus implements this new law, it aims to streamline traffic flow and enhance road safety, fostering a more efficient and orderly driving environment for all road users.
