Drastic sanctions for driving on the emergency lane of highways

15.07.2025 | Transport and communications

The new control system will detect drivers who improperly use the emergency lane, introducing strict penalties with a fine and suspension of driver's license for three months.

Снимка от InterAgency Council for Traffic, Wikimedia Commons (обществено достояние)

Starting this Saturday, the cameras of the TOL system will take unprecedented measures to limit improper behavior on highways. Expert Iliya Todorov from the Bulgarian Association of Road Accident Victims categorically warns about the deadly risks of such driving violations.

The main dangers of unlawful movement in the emergency lane are two: first, a high probability of a severe crash with a stopped vehicle, and second, blocking access for emergency services during an incident. Todorov emphasizes that even the presence of a crying child in the car does not justify using the emergency lane.

However, the mechanism for sanctioning poses several challenges. The acts will be served in the area where the violation occurred, which creates logistical complications. For example, a driver from Sofia, captured near Burgas, will need to be summoned to the Burgas region to draw up an act.

An additional problem is sanctioning foreign drivers and transit vehicles. According to Todorov, it is necessary to refine the procedure for imposing fines, especially at border checkpoints.

The expert hopes that the current difficulties are temporary and the system will gradually be optimized. As a positive point, he notes the future use of TOL cameras for measuring average speed, which will further improve road safety.

The sanction for violators includes a monetary fine and suspension of the driving license for a three-month period. The goal is to definitively limit risky driving and protect the lives of road users.

The new measure is an attempt to systematically counteract driver irresponsibility, while simultaneously aiming to increase road discipline and reduce incidents with severe consequences.