Greece announces heightened traffic police measures for August 15 holiday

The Hellenic Police has announced heightened road safety and traffic enforcement measures across Greece ahead of the August 15 holiday, known as the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, as authorities prepare for increased travel and seek to prevent road accidents.

The measures will apply across the country’s road network and are designed to ensure smoother and safer traffic during the holiday period.

Increased police presence across the road network
According to the Hellenic Police, traffic enforcement will be organized according to the conditions in each area, with increased police presence and targeted checks at locations where road accidents occur frequently.

Enhanced enforcement will also be deployed at the entrances and exits of major urban centers, where increased traffic volumes are expected, as well as within cities and at locations with large concentrations of passengers, including airports, ports and transport stations.

Police will establish general and targeted traffic inspection teams, focusing particularly on dangerous violations associated with serious road accidents.

These include:

• Speeding
• Driving under the influence of alcohol
• Illegal overtaking
• Using mobile phones while driving
• Failure to wear motorcycle helmets
• Other dangerous traffic violations

Police units will also coordinate with other relevant authorities when necessary and provide public updates in the event of significant traffic or other road-related problems.

Patrol cars, motorcycles and unmarked vehicles deployed
Throughout the enforcement period, Hellenic Police personnel and equipment, particularly those assigned to traffic units, will remain at increased operational readiness.

Patrol cars, motorcycles and unmarked vehicles will be deployed with the necessary personnel and equipment to monitor the country’s road network.

Restrictions on the movement of trucks with a maximum permitted weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes will also apply during the holiday period, in accordance with the relevant joint ministerial decision.

Police issue road safety advice
The Hellenic Police is urging motorists to take several precautions before and during their journeys.

Drivers are advised to:

• Check their vehicles before traveling.
• Check road and weather conditions before departure.
• Follow the Highway Code and road signs.
• Comply with traffic officers’ instructions.
• Avoid using mobile phones or other distracting devices while driving.
• Never drink alcohol before driving.
• Use appropriate child safety seats.
• Always wear seat belts and motorcycle helmets.
• Avoid overestimating their driving abilities or their vehicles’ capabilities.
• Drive responsibly and respect other road users and passengers.
  The authorities emphasized that responsible driving and compliance with traffic regulations are essential for reducing accidents and ensuring safe travel during the busy August 15 holiday period.