Italy Says Enough to Drunk Drivers!
Did you know Italy is introducing alcohol ignition interlocks — devices that will stop drivers from starting their cars if they’ve had too much to drink? Yes, you read that right! Drivers caught with 0.8 promille or more blood alcohol content will have to install these expensive devices in their cars for two years. And if caught with 1.5 promille or more, the penalty extends to three years! The cost? Around 2,000 euros, of course, on the driver’s dime.
How do these alcohol interlocks work?
These devices work like police breathalyzers — the driver must blow into a tube before starting the car. If the alcohol level is below 0.5 promille, the car will start. If it’s above, the engine stays cold, and the driver becomes a pedestrian.
Why is Italy introducing this measure?
Every year, about 3,000 people die in traffic accidents in Italy, and alcohol is often the culprit. Although driving with up to 0.5 promille is allowed, police checks are not frequent enough, so the government is trying to tackle the problem with this drastic approach.
But will it really help?
Experts are skeptical. Italy has many old cars — about one-fifth are over 20 years old, and installing alcohol interlocks in them is practically impossible. Also, experiences from other European countries show that the number of accidents hasn’t significantly dropped after introducing such devices.
Fines and penalties
If a driver tries to cheat the device or drives with the interlock while intoxicated, they face a fine of 6,000 euros and a renewed license suspension.
Is this just another way to burden drivers?
The 2,000-euro installation cost is no small change, especially for the average Italian. The question is whether this measure will truly reduce accidents or just add more hassle for drivers and service centers.
Conclusion
Italy has decided to confront drunk driving in a very modern but controversial way. Will alcohol interlocks be a lifesaver for the roads or just another expensive gadget that ends up unused? Time will tell.
What about you? Would you agree to have such a device in your car? Or do you think this is too much? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s for and who’s against this new Italian traffic revolution!
