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Trucks could be fitted with alcolocks to prevent inebriated drivers beginning a journey, following a vote by the European Parliament on road safety measures.
Alcolocks are a breathalyser device linked to the vehicle’s engine – if the driver’s breath reveals that he is over the limit the vehicle is automatically immobolised. In France and Belgium motorists who have been penalised for drink-driving must fit an alcolock at their own cost or face a lengthier ban.
The proposal, which also applies to coach and bus drivers, is part of a bid to halve European road deaths by 2020. Other proposals include setting a 30km/h speed limit in residential areas. A zero death toll is the longterm aim, according to MEP DieterLebrecht Koch, the rapporteur (sponsor) for the proposal. A response is awaited from the EC, possibly in the form of a draft directive.