It’s been an ongoing issue for quite some time.
Drinking and driving has always been a hot topic on the Maltese Islands. Countless unfortunate accidents have occured over the years, resulting in anything ranging from minor injuries to devastating tragedies. We posted in various Facebook groups and got locals’ and expats’ takes on the current drinking and driving situation in Malta. Here’s what they had to say.
Locals
“Attitudes to drunk-driving in Malta are similar to how they were in the UK in the 70s/80s - bearing in mind that the roads were much quieter then," said one local. "There was a big campaign against it, coupled with much more enforcement by the police, and now it's pretty uncommon. It's socially unacceptable now, whereas in Malta everyone thinks it's ok. Nothing will change unless there's a concerted effort by the authorities.”
“More hefty fines and more security. I am sick of seeing people in danger because of other's people reckless driving. No one should get hurt!!!,” said one Facebook user.
Another local suggests introducing “bigger fines” with “licences taken away after second time” they’re caught.
Expats
"People here still don't fully understand the dangers of drunk-driving and there has never been any noticeable pressure on the government (be it Nationalist or Labour) to change the law,” said one user.
Another expressed that it is a “very worrying issue. There is no law enforcement to tackle the problem. Unfortunately, it will take many generations for this to improve because there are too many people with the "it-will-never-happen-to-me" mentality.”
Someone else also harped on about how better enforcement is needed overall. “Enforcement is strongly needed here, but they really need to change the law that prevents the police carrying out random roadside tests as is done abroad. That will make a noticeable difference.”
What are your thoughts on the situation?