Since the beginning of 2026, 28 fatal road accidents have occurred in Cyprus, claiming the lives of 28 people. Half of the victims were drivers or passengers of motorcycles, mopeds and electric scooters. In response, the police are stepping up enforcement and preparing new measures to protect vulnerable road users.
Motorcyclists account for half of all road deaths
The issue of motorcycle safety in Cyprus remains a serious concern for the second year in a row. Since the beginning of 2026, 28 people have died in 28 fatal road accidents. Of these, 14 were drivers or passengers of motorcycles, mopeds or electric scooters. By comparison, 29 people had died during the same period last year. Among the victims of road accidents in 2026 were:
- 12 motorcycle riders;
- 1 motorcycle passenger;
- 1 moped rider;
- 2 electric scooter riders;
- 1 cyclist;
- 3 pedestrians.
At the same time, the number of deaths among car drivers and passengers has declined. Traffic police believe that speed cameras and more responsible behaviour among motorists may have contributed to this trend. Nevertheless, the situation involving motorcyclists remains significantly more concerning. Back in August, police reported 27 road deaths in Cyprus since the beginning of the year, 14 of whom were motorcyclists.
Police step up checks on motorcycles and electric scooters
In light of the statistics, the Traffic Police are reviewing their operational plans for the remainder of 2026. Particular attention will be focused on:
- motorcyclists;
- electric scooter riders;
- speeding;
- dangerous driving;
- mobile phone use while driving.
Driver distraction is another major concern. According to police, mobile phone use and lack of attention remain among the main contributing factors in fatal road accidents. In 2025, distracted driving was linked to 11 of the 45 road deaths, while over a three-year period police issued 31,066 fines for using a mobile phone while driving. In 2026, more than five fatal accidents have already been linked to inattentive driving.
Traffic Police also continue to carry out targeted checks for speeding, helmet use, alcohol, drugs, mobile phone use and other traffic violations.
Training for couriers and young motorcyclists
The authorities are paying particular attention to couriers, who spend many hours on the road every day. Traffic Police are working with platforms that employ food delivery riders to improve awareness of risks and safe road behaviour. Employers are also expected to ensure that couriers use the necessary protective equipment.
With support from the European Union, a training programme for professional couriers is being prepared. It will be delivered through driving schools and will include practical training as well as guidance on reducing road risks. A separate programme is also planned for:
- young people obtaining a motorcycle licence for the first time;
- young riders travelling in higher-risk areas;
- participants in training programmes.
Police are also drawing attention to parental responsibility. Cases have been identified in which minors and young people were riding motorcycles without the appropriate licence. There have also been cases where a rider held a licence for a low-powered motorcycle but was actually using a significantly more powerful vehicle without the necessary training or experience.
Protecting motorcyclists and the main causes of accidents
The Road Safety Council has already proposed subsidising protective equipment for motorcyclists. This includes, in particular, specialised airbag suits, helmets and knee protection. Such equipment can reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident. The main causes of fatal motorcycle accidents remain dangerous riding, excessive speed and inattention by other road users.
Police have recorded cases of young riders performing dangerous manoeuvres, including wheelies, and travelling at excessively high speeds. Dangerous situations also arise when cars unexpectedly cross the path of an approaching motorcycle while turning. Experts have called on police to intensify efforts against dangerous behaviour by young motorcyclists and increase police presence on the roads.
Motorcycle safety remains part of Cyprus's broader strategy to reduce road deaths. In 2026, the authorities are promoting measures aimed at young and inexperienced drivers, strengthening training and expanding road safety programmes. The strategic plan includes 28 policy areas and 158 individual measures aimed at reducing road fatalities by the end of the decade.
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