TRNC to Reevaluate Rules on Using Phones While Driving

The debate over phone use while driving continues in Northern Cyprus. A parliamentary committee recently discussed the controversial issue of phone calls made through hands-free devices or Bluetooth connections while driving. Currently, these actions are not clearly defined by law.

During discussions on amendments to the “Traffic Violations Court Law” held by the TRNC Assembly's Legal and Political Affairs Committee, a series of consultations were conducted regarding phone calls made via Bluetooth while driving.

The committee clarified the legal status of phone calls during driving, whether through hands-free systems or Bluetooth.

Since current legislation does not directly address these types of conversations, the police are entitled to treat them as “careless driving.”

According to the police, such phone calls can also impact road safety. In the past, the police have issued statements on this issue.

However, following discussions, the law has been updated to align with practices in the UK and Turkey.

As a result, phone calls made while driving will be subject to fines, but calls made using headsets, Bluetooth devices, or in-car systems will remain permitted.

Additionally, the amendment also clarifies other unclear situations, such as “screen tracking” while using a phone. The revised law is expected to be submitted for review by the General Assembly soon.