New Road Code Bill Submitted: Taxis Excluded from Bus Lanes – Exceptions Revealed

Taxis carrying passengers will ultimately remain excluded from bus lanes, according to the new Road Code bill submitted on Saturday morning (May 31, 2025). The legislation also criminalizes offenses such as using mobile phones while driving and driving under the influence of alcohol. According to the revised code, loaded taxis may enter bus lanes for a few seconds exclusively to pick up or drop off passengers. Empty taxis with zero emissions or those transporting disabled individuals will also be allowed in bus lanes. Article 55 states that public transport vehicles can stop on bus lanes for a reasonable time without obstructing public transport traffic for more than 30 seconds. Violations are penalized with a €150 fine. Additionally, speed limits have been adjusted: 30 km/h in residential areas, 50 km/h on multi-lane roads, and varying limits outside urban zones. Significant penalties include fines up to €2,000 and license suspension for excessive speeding. Using a mobile phone while driving results in escalating fines and license suspensions upon repeated offenses. Dangerous driving behaviors like failing to yield to trains or driving under the influence are now criminal offenses.