In Cyprus, drivers can be fined nearly 4000 hryvnias for taking a sip of water while driving. The same punishment applies for trying to eat a sandwich or drink coffee while at the wheel. This was reported by the publication 'Your CAR'.
The Cypriot police strictly controls compliance with this rule, emphasizing that any action that distracts the driver is a violation. The fine for such actions is 85 euros (about 3750 hryvnias).
Why even water is prohibited
According to driving instructor Andreas Christofi, the main goal of such a restriction is to minimize the risks of inattention.
«People underestimate how much time just a sip takes. During those seconds, the car can travel tens of meters out of control», — explains the specialist.
According to the local traffic code, the driver must keep both hands on the wheel, and any action that could distract them — from drinking to using a phone or applying makeup — is considered a violation.
How drivers and other countries react
Ukrainian Alexander M., who lived in Limassol for a long time, notes:
«There, the police do not warn — they immediately issue a fine. Especially if it happens in the city».
Similar norms are in place in other European countries. For example, in the UK or France, there are no specific fines for drinking water, but if the police prove that the driver created a dangerous situation, the punishment can reach 100 pounds (about 5600 UAH).
Earlier we reported that fines for driving without a license have increased significantly: new amounts and risks.