Decree on Alcohol
Approval has been given to the decree that defines in detail the technical characteristics and installation procedures of the alcohol lock, an innovative and essential device for road safety. The Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Matteo Salvini, has signed the official text, providing clear and precise guidelines addressed to authorized workshops responsible for installation and to end users. This important development marks a step forward within the framework of the reform of the Highway Code, which came into effect last December, and aims to strengthen prevention and control measures regarding driving under the influence of alcohol.
The alcohol lock, similar to an electronic breathalyzer, functions as a safety system that prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver's breath above the permitted limits. This device represents an effective solution to reduce accidents caused by alcohol abuse while driving, helping to safeguard the lives of motorists and all road users.
Generally, the new Highway Code makes the installation of the alcohol lock mandatory for drivers already sanctioned for driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above 0.8 g/l, as provided by current regulations. The decree also establishes that installation can be carried out on various categories of vehicles, both for passenger and freight transport, thereby expanding the scope of safety measures.
Special attention is also given to technical aspects and the responsibilities of the involved parties: device manufacturers must provide detailed instructions regarding the installation, use, and maintenance of the alcohol lock, ensuring high standards of quality and reliability. Authorized installers will be required to apply a special seal to the device to prevent any tampering or fraudulent alterations, thus ensuring the system's proper functionality over time.
This regulation represents an important step toward greater safety on Italian roads, promoting the use of advanced technologies for alcohol level control and encouraging more responsible driving behavior.
