Anna Cox
EFFECTIVE SINCE August 1, truck drivers are no longer be able to drink, and even consuming large quantities of alcohol the night before embarking on a trip could lead them to be prosecuted or to end up in jail.
The Department of Transport, in an effort to improve safety on the roads, has dropped the alcohol drinking level for professional drivers from 0.08g per 100ml blood to 0.02g.
This means that in fact no alcohol can be consumed at all before getting behind a wheel. The 0.02g has been imposed to safeguard drivers who are on medication, such as cough syrup, which could contain a little alcohol.
Alcohol dissipates from the blood at a rate of 0.02g per hour.
The limit for ordinary drivers has dropped to 0.05g .
The penalty for driving under the influence allows for a fine and a maximum of six years imprisonment or both.
Another major change which comes into effect is that it becomes illegal to use a cell phone while driving.
Penalties are a maximum of one year imprisonment and/or a fine or both. If the driver causes an accident he can be charged additionally with reckless and negligent driving.
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