Schnieder defends the 0.5 per mille limit: drinking and driving remains permitted!

Schnieder defends the 0.5 per mille limit: drinking and driving remains permitted!

In the midst of current debates about road traffic, the alcohol limit and the regulation of cannabis while driving, Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder is an advocate of a pragmatic approach. According to a report by the South German newspaper The minister speaks out against lowering the alcohol limit to 0.0 per mille. He considers the existing limit of 0.5 per mille to be sufficient, as moderate consumption of alcohol on many social occasions does not necessarily entail risks in traffic.

Schnieder pays particular attention to the problem of cannabis. This issue is becoming increasingly important as new rules for cannabis on the road will come into force from August 22, 2024. From this point onwards, a THC limit of 3.5 nanograms per milliliter of blood applies, which corresponds to around 0.2 per mille of alcohol. A strict limit of 0.0 ng/ml is set, especially for novice drivers and drivers under the age of 21, according to the website Parahealth reported. If the limit is exceeded, there is a risk of fines of up to 1,500 euros and loss of driving license.

Criticism of cannabis in traffic

Schnieder is critical of cannabis as a driving substance and describes its effects as unpredictable. This concern is supported by various experts who emphasize the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis. The ADAC warns, for example, that cannabis impairs concentration, attention and reaction time. For this reason, they recommend waiting at least 24 hours after consumption before getting behind the wheel, as stated on the ADAC website can be read.

But statistics show that the number of drug-related accidents has more than doubled since 2010. If you consume cannabis, you may be banned from driving and fined points. The risk of being caught driving under the influence of drugs has increased; Therefore, comprehensive information about the accident risks and penalties is urgently needed.

Alcohol and speed limits

As far as speed limits on motorways are concerned, Schnieder sees no need for a general limit since the average speed is already below 115 km/h. In addition, there are already numerous speed limits, construction sites and traffic jams that restrict fast driving. The minister also takes a critical view of the discussion about mandatory driving tests for older drivers. Statistics show that older people are less likely to be involved in accidents, even though they are often the main culprit in such attacks, especially after the age of 75.

In a changing traffic world, it remains to be seen how the new regulations on cannabis, alcohol limits and possible future speed limits will affect the driving behavior of Germans. It is clear that both politicians and traffic experts are required to continue to ensure safety on the roads and to address possible sources of danger in a timely manner.