Danish government proposes zero-tolerance alcohol policy for new drivers

The Danish government is proposing a new measure that would prohibit new drivers from getting behind the wheel after consuming even a minimal amount of alcohol, such as a light beer. The planned alcohol limit for drivers in their first three years after obtaining their license will be reduced to 0.2, essentially establishing a zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol consumption, as explained by Morten Dahlin, the Minister for Cities and Rural Areas.

Dahlin emphasized the importance of conveying a strong message that drinking and driving do not mix. This new restriction will apply to all new drivers, regardless of age, but only during their initial license period.

The proposal comes as part of a broader initiative aimed at improving conditions in rural areas, which includes allowing 17-year-olds to drive independently during specified hours to enhance mobility.

Both the Danish Motorist Association and the Danish Road Safety Council support the measure. They argue that for inexperienced drivers, even a small amount of alcohol can significantly impair driving abilities. Statistics from Denmark show a rise in reported incidents of drunk driving among young motorists, prompting the need for stricter regulations targeting this demographic.

While the measure is welcomed, concerns remain about the broader issue of alcohol abuse among drivers, which should also be addressed. The government’s initiative has raised the question of whether there should be different rules for experienced drivers, with experts suggesting that established drivers do not require the same level of restrictions due to their greater ability to assess risks.

Ultimately, authorities agree that the best practice for all drivers, regardless of experience, is to abstain from alcohol entirely when planning to drive.