New video shows value of alcohol interlocks

The value of alcohol interlocks for preventing drink-driving is highlighted in a new short film produced by the European Transport Safety Council. Around a quarter of road deaths in Europe involve drink-driving.

An alcohol interlock device requires the driver to take a breath test before starting their vehicle. The vehicle cannot be started in the event of a positive test.

As of July 2022, all new types of vehicles launched in the EU need to have the capability for an alcohol interlock to be installed. Convicted drink-drivers can opt for an alcohol interlock instead of a driving ban in several European countries, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Lithuania, Poland and Sweden.

In the short film, two participants in Belgium’s alcohol interlock rehabilitation programme speak about how using an alcohol interlock has changed their relationship with alcohol, and helped them stop drink-driving.