‘Just 3% of serious road accidents involve roadside breathalyser tests’ – Insurance Association Malta

The Insurance Association Malta (IAM) is calling on authorities to urgently enhance enforcement efforts targeting drink and drug driving, saying that only around three per cent of serious road accidents involve a roadside breathalyser test.

The association’s renewed appeal comes in support of comments made by emergency physician Dr Jonathan Joslin in a recent Times of Malta article, in which he highlighted the lack of consistent roadside testing following serious traffic incidents. The push for stronger measures follows a tragic four days, in which five people were killed in separate traffic accidents.

The data, gathered by IAM in collaboration with its member insurers, was described as a “cause for concern,” with the association warning that current enforcement measures are insufficient to address the ongoing and serious issue of impaired driving on Maltese roads.

IAM also highlighted its active participation in the Malta Road Safety Council, saying that it has additionally taken its own initiatives to support enforcement.

One of its key recommendations is a legal amendment that would give roadside drug testing the same weight and procedural clarity as alcohol testing. This move, the association argues, would strengthen police officers’ ability to act effectively and decisively when impairment is suspected.

The proposal aligns with the National Drug Policy launched two years ago, which Prime Minister Robert Abela had publicly endorsed.

Beyond policy advocacy, the association has previously donated breathalyser equipment to support enforcement efforts.

“We continue to call on authorities to prioritise investment in the resources and training needed to enable police to carry out consistent, effective roadside testing, particularly in the context of serious traffic accidents,” the statement read.

It continued: “A visible and active police presence is not a sign of excessive enforcement but rather a proven deterrent against dangerous driving behaviour.”

IAM called for the immediate implementation of alcohol and drug testing, quoting a Government’s slogan, ‘Think Twice’.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility – and it deserves unwavering commitment,” IAM concluded.