August has arrived and, with it, the usual traffic increase on Italian roads and motorways. The State Police has published on its website the calendar of critical days, highlighting those marked with a black dot, where traffic will be particularly intense.
The first weekend of August already sees the first summer exodus underway, with an increase in traffic already this afternoon. THE most critical days will be the mornings of Saturday 3 and Saturday 10 August, both marked with black dot, while Sundays will maintain high traffic.
La week of August, traditionally the most crowded in holiday resorts, will see intense travel starting from Wednesday 14 August. Traffic will be heavy both in the afternoon of August 14th and in the morning of August 15th, also involving numerous local movements. The situation will remain stable on 16 August, while Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 August will mark the beginning of the first returns from holidays, with very heavy traffic, especially on the main roads and motorways towards the major urban centers and at border crossings. Monday 19 August will also be affected by heavy traffic.
The last two weekends of August will continue to see a double flow of traffic sustained from Friday to Sunday, with departures to holiday destinations and overlapping returns.
In September the weekend of 6-8 is the most critical
A September, the focus shifts to weekend from Friday 6th to Sunday 8th, which could keep traffic flows high if climatic conditions are favourable. The afternoon of Sunday 8th and the morning of Monday 9th September will be particularly busy, marking the final phase of the summer counter-exodus.
August traffic: here are the critical days
Police advice for safe driving
The State Police and Viabilità Italia offer one set of recommendations invaluable for tackling journeys during the exodus period, with the aim of ensuring prudence and preparation.
Before traveling, it is essential to check that the vehicle is in perfect working order. This includes checking that all essential components are functioning properly. Another important aspect is the organization of luggage: it is advisable to arrange it in a balanced way to avoid overloading the car and maintain the stability of the vehicle. Those traveling with animals must ensure that they are positioned correctly and safely. To face the journey in optimal conditions, it is preferable to avoid large meals and alcoholic drinks, and leave well rested. Furthermore, it is useful to keep constantly updated on traffic conditions through dedicated channels.
During the trip, it is essential to always keep seat belts fastened and use child seats. Concentration is essential: avoid distractions such as using your mobile phone, listening to the radio or smoking while driving. It is important to make frequent stops to rest, moderate your speed and maintain an adequate safety distance from the vehicle in front. Using the lanes correctly is equally crucial, avoiding blocking the emergency lane.
How to find out about traffic
For informed and safe departures, Viabilità Italia constantly monitors the conditions of the road network national. On the site www.poliziadistato.it, useful documents are available, including the calendar with traffic stickers and time slots circulation ban for vehicles weighing more than 7.5 tonnes, as well as the “Summer 2024 Plan”.
To avoid inconvenience and travel safely, it is essential inform yourself in real time on traffic conditions. Different channels can be of great use. The CCISS offers a toll-free number, 1518, and websites www.cciss.it and mobile.cciss.it, where you can find constant updates. Rai-Isoradio provides information through radio broadcasts and Onda Verde news bulletins available on the three Radio-Rai networks and on RAI Teletext.Anas provides the "VAI" application and a single number, 800.841.148, to provide updated information. The site www.aiscat.it offers additional useful details. Motorway concessionaires have various channels, such as websites, dedicated numbers and apps, to keep travelers informed about road and traffic conditions along the various routes.
Control and assistance activities have been strengthened
To ensure road safety, the Traffic Police and the Carabinieri the number of patrols along the main road and motorway arteries will increase, also using aircraft for overflights. Controls against driving while intoxicated and under the influence of drugs will be intensified, especially along tourist itineraries.
Furthermore, there will be a particular focus on commercial vehicles and collective passenger transport, to ensure compliance with speed limits and safety regulations, especially near immovable construction site areas.
