Youths targeted in favour of responsible driving and against drink-driving

by Gozo News · July 28, 2018

Three initiatives have been announced targeting youths in favour of more responsibility on our roads and against drink-driving.

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Ian Borg said that Transport Malta, together with the Malta Road Safety Council, will be implementing the initiatives.

“Accidents that happen on our roads, both fatal and non-fatal, have a profound effect on each one of us and for sure in such circumstances, our thoughts go immediately to the families of the victim and the victim himself,” he said.

The Minister added, this is why the cry in favour of added responsibility whilst driving should never stop, said the Minister.

Executive Chairman of the Malta Road Safety Council Pierre Vella, remarked that during the summer season, there are more social events leading to an increase in alcohol consumption, and it is precisely for this reason that the importance of such initiatives gains more prominence.

Vella explained how the campaign ‘Enjoy Summer, have a safe ride home’ will be concentrating on recreational places

A car involved in a traffic accident will be placed at the entrance of the establishment so that any youths going in and out of the premises will be able to see this car – this aims to remind the individuals that driving under the effect of alcohol is not an option.

The authorities said that they will also be handing out free disposable breathalysers so that anyone can take the opportunity to use them and resultantly take the best decision on which travelling option to use to get back home.

‘Enjoy Summer, have a safe ride home’ will also be using social media in order to convey the message to a wider audience.

Driving schools and instructors will also be participating in the third initiative whereby the latter will be distributing the disposable breathalysers to those who would be taking up driving lessons. This initiative will aim to instill education from the in initial experiences that these future drivers have with the vehicles.

The Minister thanked Transport Malta and the Malta Road Safety Council for the work that they are delivering in this aspect.

Minister Borg added that Transport Malta is also working on an enforcement level, where during the last years, the enforcement team has been strengthened. “The enforcement section together with the police and the local wardens all play an important role in the traffic management scenario, as do educators.”