“The purpose of stricter sanctions is not only to punish violations but primarily to protect life and health on the roads,” reminded the spokesperson of the Presidium of the Police Corps Roman Hájek regarding the large-scale amendment.
Slovak legislation from September 1, 2026 underwent radical changes that permanently change the rules for drivers of passenger cars, pedestrians, and the increasingly popular users of scooters. If you move around Slovak cities, these innovations directly concern you.
We analyze in detail all the key updates that everyone needs to know.
New duties and tougher fines for drivers
Pedestrian priority at the “zebra” crosswalk: The driver must reduce speed when approaching the crossing so that they can stop safely. They must yield not only to those already crossing but also to pedestrians who only intend to step onto it.
People with a white cane: If a pedestrian uses a white cane (a person with visual impairments), stopping before the crossing is mandatory without exceptions.
Strict penalties for speeding: For significant excess (over +50 km/h in a populated area and over +60 km/h outside it), fines have doubled:
On the spot (in block proceedings): from 500 to 1,000 euros (previously 250–800 euros).
In administrative proceedings: from 800 to 1,300 euros (previously 500–1,000 euros).
Punishment for repeat offenders: If a driver commits 4 serious traffic violations within 12 months, their license will be revoked for at least 3 months. Returning the license will require a repeated medical examination, sessions with a psychologist, and completing a special rehabilitation program.
Objective responsibility: the fine will come by mail
The police no longer need to stop the car at the place of the violation — the fine will be issued to the vehicle owner (regardless of who was driving). The concept of objective responsibility has been expanded to such cases:
Phone use while driving: fixed fine 249 euros.
Driving against traffic (entering the opposite lane): fine 249 euros.
Unfastened seatbelt (in front seats): fine 78 euros.
Failure to maintain a safe or minimum distance to the vehicle ahead.
The police also gained the right to detain documents, remove license plates, or block wheels (“trap”) if the driver refuses to pay the fine on the spot for exceeding the allowed cargo weight.
Changes for pedestrians and children on bicycles
Ban on gadgets at crossings: Pedestrians are officially prohibited from using smartphones or other devices immediately before stepping onto the “zebra” and while crossing the road if it distracts them from controlling the situation.
Mutual responsibility: Pedestrians do not have absolute priority. It is forbidden to suddenly run onto the road without assessing the speed and distance of approaching vehicles.
Children on bicycles: Cyclists under 15 years old (previously under 10 years) are now allowed to ride on sidewalks. Children under 10 years old may ride on the sidewalk accompanied by a person aged 15 or older.
Electric scooters, residential and pedestrian zones
Ban on riding on sidewalks: Electric scooters, segways, and similar devices are classified as a separate category of “small electric vehicles.” Riding on the sidewalk is prohibited unless there is a special sign.
Requirements for e-scooters: Maximum speed — up to 25 km/h, no seat, mandatory factory plate with parameters. They may be operated on the road by persons from 15 years old.
Speed limits in special zones:
In pedestrian zones, the maximum allowed speed for vehicles (allowed to enter) is reduced from 20 km/h to 10 km/h.
In residential and school zones, the speed limit is 20 km/h.
Law enforcement officers urge all residents and visitors of Slovakia to consider the updated rules because road safety depends on the self-discipline of every participant in traffic.
