Salvini signs the decree on alcohol lock

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Matteo Salvini , has signed the decree that defines the characteristics and installation methods of the alcolock device . This can be read in a note on the website of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. "This text - the press release states - provides precise guidelines to workshops authorized for assembly and to users. This is one of the most significant innovations introduced by the new Highway Code, in force since December 14th".

The ministry continues: “The alcohol lock is a system that prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver fails a breath test. The engine will only start if the alcohol level is zero. The main goal is to discourage drunk driving and increase road safety.”

"The decree - the note continues - establishes that the alcohol lock can be installed on different categories of vehicles used for the transport of both people and goods and must comply with the standards of the European Union legislation. Specific obligations are foreseen for manufacturers, who must provide detailed instructions for installation, use and maintenance. Authorized installers will have a crucial role, having to apply a special seal to prevent any attempt at tampering".

The MIT also states that "in the event of roadside checks, the driver must show the original installation declaration and the valid calibration certificate of the device. The installation of the alcohol lock will not require an update of the single circulation document. The MIT will publish on the website www.ilportaledellautomobilista.it the list of authorized installers and vehicle models compatible with each type of alcohol lock".

The cost of installation, with relative approval, should be around 2 thousand euros and all drivers who have been sentenced to a definitive sentence for drunk driving with a blood alcohol level higher than 0.8 gr/l, for 2 years following the suspension of their license from 6 months to 1 year, will have to install it on their vehicle, including buses and trucks. If the blood alcohol level exceeds 1.5 gr/l, the obligation to install the alcohol lock will be for 3 years, after the suspension of the license from 1 to 2 years ordered by the prefect. Anyone who fails to install it despite the obligation risks a fine from 158 to 638 euros, in addition to the suspension of the license from 1 to 6 months.

Fines that double in case of tampering with the device. Finally, all fines will be increased by a third if the driver who has not installed the device is also caught drunk driving.