On Thursday, October 10, 2024, the Government of the Republic of Croatia discussed key amendments and supplements to the Road Traffic Safety Act, focusing on new technologies, such as automated vehicles, and safety regulations that accompany rapidly evolving technological changes. The proposed amendments aim to align Croatian regulations with European directives, particularly those relating to the operation and testing of new vehicle categories such as autonomous cars.

State Secretary Irena Petrijevčanin explained the importance of the amendments to enable the safe integration of automated vehicles into road traffic. Key changes pertain to defining technical conditions for the operation of these vehicles, homologation, and regulations that will ensure the safety of all traffic participants. According to the new provisions, automated vehicles will be allowed to operate only in test areas under strictly controlled conditions, all to minimize risks to other participants.

An important aspect of the amendments is the clear definition of responsibilities in the event of accidents or traffic violations involving automated vehicles. The responsibilities of manufacturers, vehicle owners, and operators will be differentiated. The new law also introduces additional regulations regarding the use of auxiliary pedestrian vehicles, such as scooters and skateboards, where strict limitations are imposed, including mandatory helmet use for all ages and a ban on using headphones while riding.

Safety aspects of the new law

Minister of the Interior Davor Božinović emphasized that safety measures are crucial in this legislative proposal. Drivers of personal transport devices, such as electric scooters, will have to adhere to strict rules. According to the new regulations, drivers are not allowed to use mobile phones or headphones that could impair their ability to react while driving. Penalties for violations related to disregarding these rules amount to 300 kuna.

Moreover, the law stipulates rules of conduct in the event of crisis situations on multi-lane roads. Specifically, it mandates the creation of corridors for the passage of emergency services, a new measure introduced based on experiences from recent years when emergencies highlighted the need for better driver organization in traffic to enable faster responses from emergency services.

The new amendments also encompass other safety measures, including mandatory vehicle equipment in traffic, such as first aid kits, for which failure to comply will result in penalties. Additionally, doctors will be obligated to inform drivers of temporary incapacity to operate a vehicle, and such warnings will be documented in medical records.

Project Croatian safe steps - CROSS II: continuation of the fight against mines

At the same government meeting, a proposal for granting non-refundable funds for demining forests and forest land as part of the Croatian safe steps - CROSS II project was adopted. This project, worth 80 million euros, is crucial for the safety and development of rural areas in Croatia. Demining will cover more than 4,000 hectares of land across four counties, aiming to create safer living conditions and economic utilization of these areas. Demining is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with funding ensured 62% from European Union funds, while the remaining 38% will be covered by state funds.

State Secretary Petrijevčanin pointed out that thanks to these projects, the mine threat will be removed from large parts of Croatia by 2026, enabling further development of forest and agricultural resources in these regions. Activities will be carried out at a total of 75 work sites, significantly reducing the risk for residents and visitors to these areas.

The government unanimously supported the proposal and emphasized that this project is yet another example of successful cooperation between Croatia and the European Union in the field of security and demining, which will also contribute to increasing economic activities in the cleared areas.