One in six riders caught without helmet during first week of Police crackdown
Authorities across the country have reported widespread violations of helmet laws in the first week of a new nationwide traffic enforcement campaign, with one in six motorcycle riders or passengers found riding without protective headgear.
The operation follows the rollout of stricter road safety regulations aimed at reducing fatal and serious injuries on roads. Enforcement efforts targeted not only traditional motorcyclists but also delivery drivers and electric scooter users, who are increasingly visible in urban centers.
According to official police data, 25,817 inspections were conducted nationwide over the past week. Of those, 3,378 violations were related to helmet use. Notably, 249 delivery drivers and 581 passengers were among the offenders.
Urban Centers Lead in Violations
The greater Athens area recorded the highest number of violations (1,287), followed by: South Aegean 374, Crete 360, Ionian Islands 342, Western Greece 313, Thessaloniki 302, Epirus 206, Peloponnese 193 and Thessaly 150.
Authorities say the geographic spread highlights a nationwide issue, not limited to major metropolitan areas.
Under the new traffic safety rules, both motorcycle drivers and their passengers face a €350 fine for failing to wear a helmet. Electric scooter users face a lower penalty of €30, though enforcement officers stress that any form of head protection dramatically reduces the risk of head injuries in an accident.
Police have emphasized that this campaign is not temporary. Ongoing spot checks, especially in high-traffic zones and tourist areas, are expected to continue throughout the summer.
Public Safety First
Law enforcement agencies say the initiative has a clear goal: to protect lives.
“Wearing a helmet can be the difference between life and death in a crash. We urge all riders to follow the law and protect themselves,” said a senior officer involved in the campaign.
Authorities are also planning public awareness campaigns alongside enforcement to change cultural attitudes toward helmet use, especially among youth and delivery service workers.
