New Highway Code, virtual lane and mandatory protections on the motorway: what's new for motorcyclists

New obligations and facilities for motorcyclists in the Highway Code, revised and reorganized by the legislative decree approved by the Council of Ministers on 13 October. Updates which - it should be remembered - are not yet in force: the text (which constitutes the second package on road safety after the 2024 one) will first have to collect the opinions of the Council of State, the Joint Conference and the Parliamentary Commissions by 12 January 2027. The changes could take effect from 1 January 2028.

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Mandatory protections on the motorway

The new Highway Code incorporates a safety rule that is now widespread among motorcyclists: on the motorway, the driver and passenger will have to wear "adequate" protection for their backs and hands. The characteristics of back protectors such as airbag vests and gloves will be established by a provision from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

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Motorcyclists who do not comply with the obligation can be fined from 40 to 160 euros. But to encourage compliance with this protection measure, a reduction of half the fine is envisaged for violations linked to an "accident" if the motorcyclist wears the required devices.

On the emergency lane in case of traffic jams

It is already happening in Spain, the same can also be done in Italy: in the event of traffic jams, accidents or slowdowns on the motorway, motorcyclists will be able to use the emergency lane. This is a "common sense rule" which, as stated in the explanatory report, protects motorcyclists from exposure to atmospheric conditions in all cases of congested traffic. However, we will have to move "at low speed" and guarantee the passage of emergency vehicles "at all times".

The virtual lane