Lessons ‘a must’ despite scooter licence waiver

Motorists aspiring to drive a low-powered motor scooter will have to sit for a minimum number of driving lessons even though they no longer need to apply for a licence.

This was confirmed by Malta Road Safety Council executive manager Pierre Vella, in the wake of a controversial Budget measure under which car drivers can now ride scooters of up to 125cc without an additional licence.

This change, due to come into force in January, is intended to encourage more people to switch to motor scooters to help ease the traffic congestion.

However, this decision fuelled concerns, especially from parents, that by allowing untutored and inexperienced scooter drivers on the road, the authorities were risking accidents.

Speaking during yesterday’s edition of current affairs programme #TimesTalk on PBS, which debated this measure, Mr Vella said policy guidelines would be unveiled in the coming days, following talks with all major stakeholders including insurance companies.

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Reported by Times of Malta on 4th November 2016