Over six million euros in traffic fines for rental vehicles remain uncollected in Cyprus

Traffic violations recorded by the photo-enforcement system involving rental vehicles with 'Z' license plates have resulted in at least €6.36 million in uncollected fines. Since the implementation of the camera system, a total of 68,173 violations were recorded, yet only 3,428 have been paid, representing a collection rate of approximately 14%.

Data provided to Parliament by Minister of Transport Evanthia Tsolaki, responding to an inquiry from DISY MP Prodromos Alabritis, reveals that authorities were unable to identify the driver in 41,114 cases, while no driver was indicated in another 15,118 instances. Only 8,501 cases successfully identified the offending driver, with just 12 cases reaching court proceedings.

To address this administrative gap, a new amendment bill is being promoted. This legislation will mandate that rental companies provide the Police with all necessary information to identify their renters immediately. The current system faces significant challenges in enforcing penalties, particularly involving tourists or short-term users who remain untraced after returning their vehicles.