Kostas Stefanis, presenter of the show Traction and a motor racing driver on Direct with Giorgos Evgenidis, emphasized the need to introduce traffic education in schools as early as first grade. He stressed that this is the only way to cultivate a new generation of drivers with a sense of responsibility.

“If traffic education had started this September and considering that licenses are issued at 17, then by 2036 we would have the first generation of conscientious drivers,” Stefanis said. He highlighted that children’s education should begin early and be taught through play, so they develop proper habits and respect for traffic rules from a young age.

Addressing the mentality of Greek drivers, he noted, “We do not learn from crashes.” He explained that ignorance fosters a dangerous sense of invincibility, leading to risky behaviors: “I drink whiskey, get home safely, so I’m fine. Next time I drink and I might kill myself.” He emphasized that this ignorance often begins with the licensing process, where young drivers enter the roads without meaningful education. He also recalled that thirty years ago, seat belts were seen as “accessories” and taxed, while helmets were treated as mere “hats.”

Stefanis described the typical Greek driver as someone with a “love affair with the car,” often driven by their ego and the illusion of immortality: “We are reckless, ready to start fistfights on the road.”

Regarding the tightening of the Traffic Code, he expressed the view that “punishment does not educate anyone” and called it merely “a way of creating impressions.” However, he supported the use of breathalyzer tests and cameras, noting, “In Greece, we are color-blind to red lights.”

On the Greek car market, Stefanis pointed out that the fleet remains old and that, despite Greeks’ passion for modern vehicles, finances often prevent upgrades. He also highlighted the growing preference for SUVs, explaining, “With one car today, you can do ten jobs.”