All drivers to face penalty points, stiffer drink-driving rules

White Paper open for public consultation

The penalty points system, currently in place for the first three years of driving, is set to be extended to all drivers.

Wardens would also be given the power to administer breathalyser tests and detain motorists until police arrive on the scene, under legal amendments being proposed by the government.

At a press conference launching a public consultation document on traffic legislation reform, Justice Minister Owen Bonnici said giving wardens the new powers may be a controversial move but the government was committed to slamming the brakes on drink driving.

“We have a situation today where wardens can pull you over for using your phone or not wearing a seatbelt, but are virtually powerless when they encounter someone driving over the alcohol limit,” he said.

In August, Times of Malta reported how blood alcohol limits would be....

https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20161008/local/all-drivers-to-face-penalty-points-stiffer-drink-driving-rules.627337

As reported on The Times of Malta, Saturday, October 8, 2016, by Mr Ivan Martin