Decreto Salvini and the “Alcolock” Provision

The Decreto Salvini (Salvini Decree), officially Law Decree No. 113 of 2018, introduced several changes to Italian law, including provisions related to road safety and driving under the influence. One notable aspect is the mandated installation of an “Alcolock” (alcohol interlock device) for repeat offenders.

What is an Alcolock?

An Alcolock is a breathalyzer device installed in a vehicle. Before the vehicle can be started, the driver must blow into the device. If the blood alcohol content (BAC) is above a pre-set limit, the vehicle will not start. Some Alcolocks also require rolling retests during the journey to prevent someone else from providing the initial breath sample.

Alcolock Requirement Under Decreto Salvini

The Decreto Salvini stipulates that individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) with a specific high BAC level, particularly repeat offenders, are required to install and use an Alcolock system in their vehicles. This measure aims to prevent these individuals from driving while intoxicated in the future.

Specific BAC Thresholds and Penalties

Although the exact BAC thresholds triggering the Alcolock requirement can vary based on specific interpretations and judicial decisions, it typically applies to cases involving significantly elevated blood alcohol levels. Penalties associated with DUI in Italy, in general, include fines, license suspension or revocation, and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and prior convictions.

• Fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of euros.
• Suspension or revocation of the driver’s license for varying periods.
• Potential imprisonment, especially for repeat offenders or high BAC levels.

Purpose and Impact

The primary purpose of the Alcolock provision is to enhance road safety by preventing individuals with a history of drunk driving from operating vehicles while impaired. By mandating the use of Alcolocks, the Decreto Salvini aims to reduce alcohol-related traffic accidents and fatalities.

Criticisms and Considerations

While the Alcolock provision is generally viewed as a positive step towards improving road safety, some concerns have been raised regarding the costs associated with installing and maintaining the device. Cost could be a barrier to some, especially those from low income backgrounds. Concerns also exist about the potential for circumventing the device, although Alcolock technology is constantly being refined to prevent such actions.

Conclusion

The Alcolock provision within the Decreto Salvini represents a significant effort to address the issue of drunk driving in Italy. By requiring repeat offenders with high BAC levels to use these devices, the law seeks to promote safer roads and reduce the risk of alcohol-related accidents.