The Greek Ministry of Transport has denied fake news about “fines for coffee and coats while driving”

Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport of Greece denied reports of “fines” for coffee, water and warm coats while driving. The new rules do not contain such restrictions.

According to the ministry, fake news was spread online that drivers were allegedly facing fines for habits such as wearing a thick coat, drinking coffee or water while driving, and placing purchases in the back seat of a car*. These allegations have been admitted unfaithful.

The statement emphasizes:

• Not a single paragraph of the new Code provides for fines for wearing a thick coat. There is no such ban.
• There is no mention of banning the use of cup holders or the consumption of coffee and water in the car.
• There is no ban on placing shopping bags on car seats.

The Ministry clarifies that the only related provision is Article 18, paragraph 2 – indicates that the driver must have complete freedom of movement to safely operate the vehicle. This provision was also present in the previous Code of 1999 and never provided for fines for everyday actions.

Regarding the transportation of items and packages, Article 36, paragraph 4 requires only that the cargo be stowed safely and not obstruct visibility or endanger passengers or other road users. The ministry recommends using the trunk of a car whenever possible.

Conclusion: Wearing a warm coat, drinking water or coffee, and placing bags on seats will not result in fines unless violated. basic rules for safe driving.

Comment

However, the Greek media recalled that in September 2024 The traffic police released a video warning about a possible fine in 100 euros for “hands not on the steering wheel, but on a cup of coffee.” This incident, according to observers, became the source of subsequent distorted rumors.

??Μόνο τα χέρια στο τιμόνι!#καφες #κινητο pic.twitter.com/cFjmeSfW3C

— Ελληνική Αστυνομία (@hellenicpolice) September 2, 2024

* It is not clear what they are actually fined for…

As a result, as commentators ironically note, “In a country where everyone interprets the law differently, it is not surprising that people stop respecting any rules.”

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