{
  "id": 4893307,
  "title": "Italy moves against ‘zombie pedestrians’ as phone users face €75 fine",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/01/italy-moves-against-zombie-pedestrians-as-phone-users-face-75-fine",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-01T16:22:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Euro Weekly News",
    "slug": "euro-weekly-news",
    "url": "https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/09/01/italy-moves-against-zombie-pedestrians-as-phone-users-face-e75-fine/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Italy is considering a new rule that could see pedestrians fined €75 for using their phones while crossing the road. This proposed regulation builds on a successful campaign in Sassari, Sardinia, where police tackled \"smartphone zombies\" crossing without paying attention to traffic. The fine would target those who use smartphones or other electronic devices while crossing, not those who simply walk along the pavement. The rules would also emphasize that pedestrians should verify that an approaching vehicle has seen them before crossing and avoid sudden movements that could endanger drivers. The proposal would make pedestrians more responsible for their safety and the safety of others, shifting the focus from solely holding drivers accountable. The changes remain part of a draft revision of Italy's road rules, subject to public consultation before final approval. The intention is to improve pedestrian awareness and behavior at intersections, reducing the risk of accidents caused by distracted crossing.",
  "summary": "I’m sure many of us are guilty of having our heads stuck in our phones when crossing the road, I […]",
  "key_points": [
    "Italy considers new rule to fine phone-using pedestrians €75",
    "Proposed regulation inspired by successful campaign in Sassari, Sardinia",
    "Changes aim to improve pedestrian awareness and safety at intersections"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}