Drivers could soon be locked out of their own cars after visiting the pub under new road safety tools being considered by the Government. Officials are looking into the pros and cons of alcohol ignition locks as part of a consultation over new road rules.
Alcolocks are special breathalyser devices fitted inside vehicles that monitor drivers' breath samples before and during journeys. The device is built to stop the engine from starting if a driver's breath sample is above a set limit, ensuring motorists cannot travel if they may be drunk.
The tools will only be fitted to vehicles once individuals have been sentenced for breaking drink driving rules, meaning the device will not be rolled out to everyone.
The Department for Transport (DfT) explains: “The government believes that the option of fitting an alcohol ignition lock (alcolock) as part of a sentence for drink driving would be an effective measure in reducing reoffending.
“The Road Safety Act 2006 provided legislation to enable alcolocks to be so used. This was subject to a ‘sunset clause’ (a time limit on legislation, after which it expires), which meant that they could not be introduced.
“Should their future use be legislated for, the government will focus on working collaboratively to enable their rollout.”
Alcolock devices are already used in many other countries including European nations such as Belgium and the Netherlands. The tools have also been effectively used in countries like Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
John Kushnick, Legal Operations Director at National Accident Helpline, stressed the new locks would be more effective than simply snatching away driving licences.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, The alcolock proposal, however, is genuinely promising. Interlocks reduce recidivism by 64% and are 40-95% more effective than license withdrawal or fines. Unlike limit changes, they physically prevent drink driving.
Previous data from the RAC has suggested alcolocks could be popular among road users. A poll of 2,395 drivers found that a whopooing 82% supported the introduction of alcohol interlocks to reduce repeat drink-driving.
The survey found that just 7% were against using the tools, with 12% unsure about where they stood. Support is highest among younger drivers, with data suggesting that 87% of those under 25 and 86% of those aged 25 to 44 happy to see the new locks brought in.
