
Insurance lobby welcomes harsher penalties for drunk and drugged driving as turning point for road safety
The Insurance Association Malta believes the government’s plans to introduce roadside drug and alcohol testing, while adopting stronger sanctions against those driving under the influence will mark a turning point for road safety.
Welcoming the government’s announcement, IAM said it had been actively lobbying for such measures over recent years, as it firmly believes tougher enforcement will serve as a much-needed deterrent against irresponsible and dangerous conduct on our roads.
“These measures send a clear signal to all that protecting the lives of responsible, law-abiding road users is paramount,” IAM director General Adrian Galea said.
The Association was reacting to Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri’s announcement that government plans to introduce prison sentences for offenders who cause fatalities while under the influence; remove the option for suspended sentences; increase fines for repeat offenders; and empower courts to suspend driving licences while proceedings are still pending.
IAM welcomes the fact that Malta is moving closer towards the introduction of strong and effective roadside testing, building on best practices already used in other EU member states.
“This reform represents an important step forward in safeguarding lives and ensuring that those who choose to endanger others are held fully accountable for their actions. Through effective implementation and enforcement, IAM is confident our roads can and will become safer for everyone,” Mr Galea said.
- August 28, 2025 No comments Posted in: Press Launches Tags: insurance, random testing