Greek media report, that the authorities are trying to stomp out the insulting gesture of the “moutza”, at least when driving.
It is reported, that the new Highway Code envisages fines for professional drivers, such as taxi, bus and truck drivers, who insult others with the traditional gesture of the outward hand.
For those unfamiliar with the gesture it consists of extending all fingers of one or both hands and presenting the palm or palms towards the person to be insulted in a forward motion.
It is often coupled with expletives, too insulting to be cited.
Observers say, however, that it would be very difficult to enforce the meassure on Greek roads.
According to researchers, this gesture came from the traditional practice of rubbing dirt, ashes or faeces in the face of convicts.
The new code also links fines for traffic offences to income and abolishes the rebate for early repayment of the fine.
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
