Government plans total ban on alcohol consumption by drivers

The government plans to implement a total ban on alcohol consumption by drivers, it was reported on Friday.

An inter-ministerial committee on alcohol and substance abuse, led by social develop minister Bathabile Dlamini, had decided to approach the Cabinet to present a case for zero tolerance of alcohol on the roads, The Sowetan reported.

At the moment, motorists may have up to 0.05ml of alcohol in their blood.

Transport department spokesman Tiyani Rikhotso told the newspaper drivers were continuing to disregard the alcohol limit.

"Medical research has shown that a drop of alcohol [in the blood] leads to [drivers] not being able to control their vehicles. Most of the accidents are caused by drunk people on our roads."

He said the department also supported the banning of alcohol advertisement as it made people drink more, and attracted new drinkers.

Social development department spokeswoman Lumka Oliphant said the draft bill would be presented to the Cabinet before public comment was sought.

Automobile Association of SA spokesman Gary Ronald told The Sowetan a total ban on alcohol for drivers in Brazil had led to a 30 percent drop in road fatalities and injuries.