The incident in Chalandri where two minors were arrested following a police chase by OPKE officers, with one of them being the son of PASOK MP Michalis Katrinis, brings back into focus the discussion around the current legal framework for driving by minors, which has recently been revised.
Criminal charges were filed against them, as applicable, for three misdemeanors: dangerous driving that could have posed a danger to human life, disobedience, and carrying weapons. The minors were released and a formal trial date will be set.
Specifically, the incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, December 16, around 04:00, when police officers attempted to stop a vehicle in Chalandri. The driver failed to comply with the stop signal and a chase followed on Mesogion and Tzavella streets. After it ended, it was discovered that six minors were in the vehicle, while the driver was a 16-year-old without a driving license, who allegedly also drove against traffic on one-way streets. During the inspection, a kitchen knife was also found in the possession of the passenger.
The public statement by Michalis Katrinis regarding his son’s arrest, that the act was “illegal and unjustified,” emphasizing that “the law applies to everyone without exception,” brought to the forefront the question: What do traffic regulations and criminal law provide when a minor drives without a license, especially in a dangerous manner?
What traffic law provides for unlicensed driving by minors
According to current traffic regulations, driving a motor vehicle without a driving license constitutes a serious violation, regardless of age. However, when the driver is a minor, the case is not limited to issuing a traffic violation. The minor is referred to the competent juvenile prosecutor’s office, while the vehicle can be immobilized and administrative penalties, such as fines, can be imposed. The criminal treatment of minors differs due to age, with the judicial system emphasizing reformative and educational measures. However, when aggravating factors are present, such as dangerous driving, disobedience to police signals, or acts that create danger to third parties, the framework becomes stricter, as it becomes a matter of public safety. Additionally, the law provides that responsibilities may also be sought from the minor’s parents or guardians. If knowledge, tolerance, or inadequate supervision emerges, the possibility of criminal liability for negligent supervision of a minor is examined. In case of a traffic accident, the civil liability of parents for compensation of victims is also activated.
