Penalty points system to be extended to all drivers

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

This was announced by justice minister Owen Bonnici during the launch of a White Paper on traffic safety for public consultation.

The White Paper also envisages harsher sanctions for people found driving under the influence of alcohol, with fines for first-time offenders increasing from €1,200 to €1,800, and for repeat offenders from €2,329.37 to €3,000.

The courts will also be allowed to place drunk drivers under probation, as well as to order them to attend rehabilitation programme or to undergo community service.

A new system of permissible alcohol limits will be adopted, which will distinguish between driving for private purposes, driving of commercial vehicles, driving of buses, coaches and other vehicles carrying commuters against payment and driving under a probationary driving license. These categories will be subject to different alcohol limits which in certain cases can even be zero.

Local wardens will also be given the right to administer breathalyzer tests to motorists suspected or driving under the influence of alcohol without having to wait for the police to arrive on site.   

The White Paper is open to public consultation until 15 November, and consultations can be e-mailed to [email protected].