Weekend bans for trucks exceeding 7.5 tonnes are suspended for longer in Italy, according to trasportoeuropa.it, citing a decree signed by Italian Transport Minister Paola De Micheli. For domestic transportations, it is suspended until 5 April, for international transportations until further notice.
The ministry explains that this decision is necessary to deal with the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. It also points out that weekend bans would have no point any longer if the movement of citizens is strictly limited.
Italian media advise carriers to check current regulations regarding weekend bans in other European countries before starting for international transportation.
Meanwhile, the Italian industry is waiting for the final decision of the authorities regarding the relaxation of working time regulations. Some associations of carriers demanded such loosening on drivers’ hours, but this change has harshly been criticized by the drivers.