Traffic-imposed halt and voluntary stopping

Italian traffic law distinguishes three concepts. An arresto is an involuntary interruption caused by traffic requirements, such as a red signal or queue. A fermata is a very brief voluntary stop for an immediate need, such as allowing passengers to board or alight or asking a traffic officer for information; the driver remains ready to move. Sosta means parking, where the interruption is more prolonged and the driver may leave the vehicle.