Drunk Driver’s €6,500 Lesson: Safety Over Savla

Imagine, if you will, the scene at the St. Julian’s traffic court last Tuesday. A man, let’s call him Joe, stood before the magistrate, not for a parking fine or a speeding ticket, but for a charge that could have ended in tragedy. Joe was slapped with a €6,500 fine and a 12-month driving ban for dangerous drunk driving.

Drunk Driving in Malta: A Serious Offence

Malta’s roads are narrow, and our cars are small, but that doesn’t make drunk driving any less dangerous. The maximum penalty for driving under the influence is €23,300 and a two-year driving ban. Joe got off lightly, but his story serves as a stark reminder of the consequences.

According to the Malta Police, in 2021, 144 people were arrested for driving under the influence. That’s one too many. The roads around Paceville, Sliema, and St. Julian’s are particularly hotspots, with late-night revellers often tempted to drive home after a night out.

Local Businesses Weigh In

We spoke to local bar owners who agreed that drunk driving is a serious issue. “We always encourage our customers to take a taxi or use public transport,” said Mario, owner of a popular Sliema bar. “We’ve even started offering discounted taxi rides on busy nights.”

Taxi drivers, however, have a different perspective. “We see it all the time,” said Tony, a veteran taxi driver. “People who’ve had too much to drink, thinking they can drive. It’s scary.”

Alternatives to Drinking and Driving

So, what can you do if you’ve had a few drinks and need to get home? Here are some options:

• Taxis: Malta has plenty of taxis, and you can even book one using apps like Bolt or TaxiMe.
• Public Transport: Night buses run until late, and the Malta Public Transport app can help you plan your journey.
• Designated Driver: If you’re planning a night out, why not nominate a sober driver? They’ll thank you in the morning.

Remember, it’s not just about the fine or the driving ban. Drunk driving puts lives at risk – your own, your passengers’, and other road users’. It’s simply not worth it.

As Joe left the courtroom, he turned to us and said, “I wish I’d thought about the consequences before I got behind the wheel. I’ve learned my lesson the hard way.” Let’s hope his story serves as a reminder to us all.