Immediate Imprisonment For Those Guilty Of Intoxicated Road Deaths

Parliament has unanimously approved legal amendments allowing the Police to carry out random roadside drug testing for the first time, without the need for reasonable suspicion or a court order.

The new measures, passed at Third Reading stage, are intended to strengthen road safety and protect responsible road users. The system will operate in a similar way to existing alcohol breathalyser tests.

The amendments follow months of work by the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment in collaboration with the Malta Police Force, including the procurement of the necessary testing equipment and the drafting of the new legislation.

Under the new provisions, anyone convicted of causing a death while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will face an effective prison sentence, even if the offence was involuntary. Suspended sentences will no longer apply in such cases.

Penalties for driving under the influence and for causing serious injury while intoxicated have also been increased. Prosecutors may request the suspension of a driving licence while court proceedings are ongoing.

Additional changes include harsher penalties for hit and run offences, excessive speeding and driving without a licence or insurance.

A new offence has also been introduced targeting the production or distribution of content that promotes dangerous driving.

Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri described the reforms as a strong deterrent aimed at promoting responsible driving and greater public safety.

#MaltaDaily