Minister of Tourism Development and Transport Shawn Crockwell said tonight that Government plans to move forward with roadside sobriety testing.

Mr Crockwell said: “The Government will move forward with our plans to amend the Motor Car Act 1951 to allow “test before arrest” for roadside breathalysers, to create provisions on preliminary testing and to provide an approved instrument order so the proposed breathalyser may be used by the police to administer preliminary testing.

“The core objectives of introducing roadside sobriety testing are to decrease the number of alcohol related collisions/deaths on Bermuda’s roads, to increase awareness of alcohol related legislation, and to decrease the abuse of alcohol.”

The Minister concluded: “It is vital that we continue to look at ways to save lives on our roads. With the implementation of some form of roadside sobriety testing scheme, it is anticipated that the benefits will consist of, but not (be) limited to, a decrease in the number of alcohol related collisions, injuries and deaths, and increase the level of safety on our roads.”

Mr Crockwell also issued a motoring safety reminder, focusing on the use of mobile devices while riding or driving. A media release noted that legislation banning the use of mobile phones, iPods and other hand-held devices while driving was passed in the House of Assembly in 2010.

However, mobile phone usage while driving a car or riding a bike has become prevalent.

Mr Crockwell was quoted saying: “Motorists are still using their mobile phones whilst driving, despite it being illegal. This is a major source of distraction and could result in a collision. If you must use your phone whilst driving, pull over on the side of the road before doing so to avoid a collision.”

Motorists were reminded that the law allows for fines up to $500 for first offences, second offences within two years can mean fines up to $750 and a third offence within two years can net a fine of as much as $1,000. Magistrates also have discretion to order six-month driving bans for first and second offences and up to 18 months for a third offence.

Minister Crockwell also said complaints have been received about dumpster trailers operating illegally on the roads. “As a reminder, it is currently illegal to operate a dumpster trailer on our roads without the express permission of the Minister of Tourism Development and Transport.”

The Motor Car Act 1951 restricts the type of load that a tractor trailer dumpster can carry, along with limitations on the time of day that dumpsters can operate on Bermuda’s roads, the media release stated. In accordance to the Act, the policy has defined that a tractor trailer dumpster can only carry items that a truck cannot. Policy also dictates specific times that a tractor trailer dumpster is restricted from operating.

“There are some cases in which it is more practical to appeal to the Minister for an exception and consequently, under Section 41 (3) of the Motor Car Act, the Minister of Transport has the authority to grant operators permits based on a sound application,” said the statement.