Under Italian Law, art. 186 Highway Code (“Codice della Strada”) forbids to drive under the influence of alcohol. The same article also set drink-driving sanctions while art. 186 bis include specific sanctions for special categories of drivers.
Drink-driving sanctions depend on the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of the driver. Under this circumstance, the sanctioning system is as follows:
· BAC between 0,5 and 0,8 gram per litre: administrative fine of €532.00 and driving license suspension from 3 to 6 months;
BAC between 0,8 and 1,5 gram per litre: minimum criminal fine of €800.00, driving license suspension from 6 to 12 months and detention of up to 6 months;
· BAC higher than 1.5 gram per litre: criminal offence of €1.500.00, driving license suspension from 12 to 24 months and detention of up to 12 months. Moreover, the seizure of the car is applied as provisional measure.
Generally, aforementioned sanctions can be increased up to one third for special categories of drivers such as minors under the age of 21, new drivers, and professional drivers. Again, previous sanctions might be increased up to one third where the offence occurred during night-time hours.
It is relevant to highlight that police officers – through a specific breathalyzer – can measure driver’s BAC. In such situation, the driver shall be aware about his rights and duties. In fact, in the event of driver’s refusal to breath analysis, highest sanctions will be applied. Furthermore, sanctions are doubled in the event driver causes a road accident.
Should you need assistance in drink-driving case occurred in Italy do not hesitate to contact us. Our professionals are able to provide you with an effective action and find the best solution for your case.