Distracted Italian pedestrians who cross road while on phone could be fined under new code

Pedestrians will still be able to have hands-free conversations while crossing the road, and can use their phone in an emergency. Photograph: Kristina Blokhin/Alamy

Italy’s updated highway code will target pedestrians who stare at their mobile phones while crossing the road, as the country’s transport ministry strives to improve road safety by cracking down on perilous distractions.

The offence, contained in a draft version of the highway code which is expected to be approved by mid-October, carries fines of €75 or more.