A road trip through Europe is certainly enjoyable, and even more so when accompanied by food and wine tasting stops. But be careful! The warning is to never forget the safety guarantees related to alcohol consumption. In Europe, individual legislations provide for very different blood alcohol limits for drivers. In Italy, the legal limit is 0.5 g alcohol/litre. Driving above this threshold is considered "under the influence" and constitutes a crime.
The ETSC (European Transport Safety Council) is pushing for common legislation based on zero tolerance for everyone and the mandatory use of alcohol interlocks on board starting from 2022. What is it? It's essentially a breathalyzer installed in the vehicle. Before being able to start the engine, the driver must blow into the electronic device, very similar to those used by law enforcement. If the legal limit is exceeded, it will not be possible to start the engine.
The alcohol interlock has already become standard equipment in 17 EU countries. If the driver has had even just one glass of wine, they remain stuck in the parking lot. In Sweden, it is mandatory on public transport vehicles. The same applies in Finland, which also requires it for school buses. In Denmark, Austria, France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, and Portugal, the alcohol interlock is present on all heavy commercial vehicles. And in Italy? Our country is in an "experimental phase" of the mandate.
Naturally, in Italy, it is already possible to voluntarily install a breathalyzer in one's car. Those who choose to independently check their physical condition with this tool every time they have to get behind the wheel are considered "virtuous" by some insurance companies, which offer a discount on their policy. But - alcohol interlock on board or not - alcohol is a real danger for drivers. For road safety, drink or drive, never both!
