August 25, 2026, 11:33 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Smartphone use in traffic is no longer just an issue for drivers. In Italy, pedestrians could soon face fines if they cross the street while looking at their screens.
Fight Against “Smombies” on Italy’s Streets
Reaching for a smartphone has become second nature for many people. Whether it’s messages, social networks, or short videos, people often glance at their screens even when their surroundings demand attention. Italy now aims to address this issue.
According to a draft revision of the traffic regulations, pedestrians could face fines of at least 75 euros if they continuously look at their smartphones while crossing a street. The proposed rule would apply regardless of whether the street is crossed at a crosswalk or elsewhere. The goal is to reduce distractions in traffic and increase safety for all road users.
EU Study Calls for Rapid Blocks Against Illegal Live Streams
Google Maps Gains New Features Thanks to AI
Italy Would Not Be a Pioneer
With this initiative, Italy would not be breaking new ground internationally. Similar regulations already exist in various countries and cities to combat so-called “smombies.” These include the Japanese city of Yamato, Lithuania, and Honolulu in Hawaii.
The Italian draft apparently does not only target smartphones. Other electronic devices such as tablets, laptops, or digital cameras could also fall under the proposed regulations. However, the use of headphones, earbuds, and hands-free devices would still be allowed, provided they do not impair the user’s awareness of their surroundings and users can still hear ambient sounds adequately.
Also of interest: These WhatsApp messages can get you in trouble with the law
Nothing Is Decided Yet
The background to the planned measure includes several court decisions in Italy. In various cases, pedestrians were found partially at fault after accidents because they were inattentive. The proposed legal change aims to address this issue more effectively in the future.
However, the new regulation is not yet set in stone. Associations and interest groups have until September 13, 2026, to comment on the draft. Subsequently, the Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport is expected to finalize the regulation. A decision is anticipated by mid-October. If the rule is adopted, smartphone users crossing the street in Italy could face significant additional costs.