MEPs support measures for effective cross border enforcement of traffic offences such as drink driving

The European Parliament overwhelmingly backed plans in Strasbourg to establish a system to enforce penalties against drivers who commit an offence in another EU Member State (594 votes in favour, 35 against and 40 abstentions). The proposal is seen by MEPs as an important step in creating a comprehensive approach to road safety enforcement across the EU. This legislation will allow enforcement agencies, for the first time, to chase up drivers who have committed offences abroad, with a vehicle registered in another EU member state. This will be done through the creation of an EU electronic system of data exchange which will enable Member States to trace non-resident vehicles, where a driving offence has been spotted. Initially only four offences will be under the scope of this legislation which include drink driving, MEPs also inserted a range of EU-wide road safety guidelines into the Commission proposal. As far as blood alcohol testing in concerned, Member States should, ensure that at least 30% of the drivers can be tested annually.

The proposal establishes an electronic system for the exchange of information between Member States on offences committed. The vehicle registration number and other personal data will be transmitted to be checked once an offence is spotted. After this verification by the Member State where the vehicle is registered, the relevant national authority will send an offence notification to the owner of the vehicle, asking for payment of the penalty. Authorities will be designated in each Member State to assist them with the application of the directive. The Parliament makes proposals to ensure the protection of the personal data will be exchanged.

If the offender refuses to pay, his refusal will be communicated to the authorities of his Member State for enforcement. Such enforcement will be governed by the law in the same way as for similar fines within the home Member State.

The Commission was asked to submit, two years after the directive had entered into force, a report on its implementation. On the basis of that report, it should be consedered whether the scope of the rules might be extended to other road traffic infringements.

The European Parliament feels that, if this proposal is to be effective, road users should be informed about its rules. This information should be passed on to drivers by, for example, road safety bodies and automobile clubs.