in-cyprus 11 February 2020 -Edited by Bouli Hadjioannou
Dangerous drivers will have their driving licence revoked under a new regime that came into force yesterday, Phileleftheros reported on Tuesday.
It follows agreement at the road safety council that drivers found to pose a risk to others should have their driving licence suspended or revoked by the department of motor vehicles, over and above legal action taken against them in court.
The decision, taken in cooperation with the Transport and Justice Ministers, together with tougher penalties currently being discussed in parliament aim at stemming the bloodshed on the roads.
The police chief and traffic police yesterday set out the eight criteria which will apply and these were sent to all the districts for implementation.
These are as follows:
- drivers caught driving under the influence of drugs for the second time in 12 months
- drivers caught driving under the influence of drugs and speeding at more than 75% above the speed limit at the same time
- drivers who test positive for drugs and alcohol at the same time
- drivers caught twice in 12 months speeding at more than 75% of the speed limit when the offence is not regulated by out of court fines
- drivers caught twice in two months driving under the influence of alcohol in excess of 71 mg (legal limit is 22mg)
- drivers caught speeding and drunk
- drivers who cause an accident with serious injuries or damage and it is established they were speeding or drunk when the offence is not regulated by out of court fines
- drivers holders of professional licences for taxis, buses or trucks caught driving under the influence of drug or alcohol or speeding when the offence is not regulated by out of court fines
Those who lose their licence will appear before a medical council which will decide on the next steps.
