From June 1, an important new rule comes into effect for those who travel on the highway and often have to deal with roadworks along the route. In fact, toll refunds will be triggered in cases of traffic jams or delays caused by roadworks. The idea, provided by a resolution of the Transport Regulation Authority, is very simple. Motorists can obtain a compensation directly from highway operators for the inconvenience suffered during travel. But, alongside the positive aspect for users, there is also a “mirror” risk that should not be ignored. Concessionaires could increase tariffs to recover the money paid out as refunds.
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Highways: new delay refund rules
In this first phase, however, the scope of application is not the same for all routes. Ansa reports that, according to Codacons, delays related to roadworks will entitle refunds only for stretches of highways managed entirely by the same concessionaire. Instead, for roadworks present on sections entrusted to multiple operators, refunds will start by December 1, 2026. The rules to trigger the refund also change depending on the length of the route. For stretches under 30 km the right is independent of the delay, between 30 and 50 km the refund is activated if the delay exceeds 10 minutes, beyond 50 km at least a 15-minute delay is required.
Roadworks in the spotlight
The amount of the refund is calculated through coefficients established by the Authority: in cases of traffic jams, the compensation is equal to 50% of the toll with stops between 60 and 119 minutes, 75% between 120 and 179 minutes, and 100% beyond 180 minutes. However, there remain important exceptions: the refund is not due if a generalized toll reduction is already planned on the route, or in case of emergency roadworks due to accidents, weather events, or extraordinary hydrogeological situations, or rescue activities. Furthermore, those with subscriptions can withdraw if the works reduce the usability of the usual route, while operators must guarantee request channels with a response within 20 days.
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