Authorities across Moldova are sounding the alarm after several incidents of drunk driving were reported within just 24 hours, with alarming levels of intoxication discovered among various drivers. The National Police of Moldova disclosed these findings, which not only highlight the severity of the issue but also raise concerns for public safety on the roads.
Among the most shocking cases was recorded in Nisporeni, where a 45-year-old man was apprehended driving with a staggering alcohol concentration of 8 times over the legal limit. An alcohol breath test using the Drager device revealed his blood alcohol content (BAC) measured at 1.14 mg/l, indicating dangerous levels of intoxication.
But he wasn't alone. The police also intercepted another young individual, just 21 years old, driving a motocultor through the locality of Bucovăț, Strășeni, with 0.81 mg/l of alcohol found on the breathalyzer test. The alarming trend continued with yet another incident involving a 25-year-old man behind the wheel of a DAEWOO vehicle, who was tested at 0.20 mg/l at Pelivan, Orhei.
Meanwhile, the capital, Chișinău, also registered alarming findings, where police caught one individual riding an electric scooter under the influence, recording 0.50 mg/l. Another cyclist, aged 28, was similarly flagged with 0.37 mg/l, receiving penalties as mandated by law.
The consequences for these infractions can be severe. According to Moldovan law, drivers found to be heavily intoxicated risk hefty fines, which can reach up to 125,000 lei, or even imprisonment of up to three years, alongside the revocation of their driving privileges.
These incidents shine a light on the broader issue of drunk driving within the country, which has previously prompted authorities to install stricter regulations and increase awareness campaigns. Particularly concerning is the variety of vehicles involved, showing the extent to which alcohol consumption is impacting drivers across all modes of transport—from cars to scooters and bicycles.
Drunk driving puts not only the offenders at risk but also the safety of other road users. The police have reiterated the importance of responsible drinking habits and the responsibilities of drivers to avoid getting behind the wheel when intoxicated. This incident is part of wider efforts by the National Police to combat the epidemic of drunk driving, aiming to educate the public on the dangers of driving under the influence as they seek to make roads safer for all.
With these statistics coming to light, the National Police have called for community vigilance and cooperation. They encourage citizens to report instances of suspected drunk driving and to promote responsible drinking among their peers. Through increased collaboration between law enforcement and the public, authorities hope to reduce the alarming rates of drunk driving events.
Legislation and public awareness remain key elements needed to address this pressing issue. The Ministry of Internal Affairs is currently reviewing measures to deter drunk driving, which may include new educational campaigns, stricter enforcement of existing laws, and increased penalties for violations.
Encouragingly, there are also community-focused initiatives set to begin, aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of alcohol consumption and its immediate effects on driving capabilities. Local organizations are expected to collaborate with police to conduct workshops and provide resources on safe transportation alternatives.
The National Police are also utilizing social media platforms to reach younger audiences, employing more innovative methods to communicate the risks of drunk driving directly to those who might be tempted to drive under the influence.
Overall, the alarming incidents reported over the past 24 hours serve as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to prevent drunk driving and save lives on Moldovan roads.