The Minister of Internal Affairs, Pance Toshkovski, clarified during an appearance on the news program of the Macedonian National Television how sanctions will be applied within the "Safe City" system, particularly regarding repeated offenses and the option for voluntary payment of fines.
He emphasized that the legal regulations provide clear mechanisms for sanctioning, noting that any driver can commit an offense, but serious and significant exceeding of the speed limit carries stricter consequences.
"For example, if a driver is speeding over 90 kilometers per hour in a zone where the speed limit is 50 kilometers per hour, a driving ban will be imposed. This means that for a certain period, the individual will not be able to operate either their own or any other vehicle of that category," Toshkovski explained.
The minister highlighted that the system allows for the option of voluntarily accepting responsibility, which offers certain benefits to citizens. If the fine is paid within eight days, only half of the amount is due. Additionally, if the citizen pays the fine within 16 days and acknowledges the offense, the Ministry may impose a driving ban below the legal minimum.
"If, according to the law, a specific offense carries a driving ban of at least three months, in the case of voluntary acceptance and payment, that ban can be reduced, for example, to 45 days. We introduced this to motivate citizens to avoid lengthy court proceedings when there is clear evidence," said Toshkovski.
He added that the "Safe City" system operates with video recordings and photographs as evidence, allowing for high accuracy in determining violations. Citizens, however, have the right to initiate legal proceedings if they deem it necessary, but in such cases, the benefits for reducing penalties below the legal minimum cannot be applied.
"The goal is not punishment at all costs, but greater responsibility in traffic. Those who commit serious violations will face consequences, and the system is designed primarily to contribute to the protection of human lives," emphasized Minister Toshkovski.
The "Safe City" project represents a key step in enhancing traffic discipline, digitizing procedures, and strengthening the safety of all participants in traffic.