site.btaNew EU Driving License Regulations Will Have Disciplinary Effect, Says MEP Andrey Novakov

The two-year probationary period for young drivers in the EU will have a disciplinary effect, MEP Andrey Novakov (EPP/GERB) told BTA on Wednesday, following the European Parliament's adoption on Tuesday of new driving license regulations introducing provisions for novice drivers and vulnerable road users, as well as provisions for the withdrawal of driving licenses. Novakov pointed out that during the probationary period, young drivers will be subject to much stricter monitoring and harsher penalties for certain violations, including license withdrawal when national legislation provides for it. "Unfortunately, there are enough tragic cases that prove the need for this," he said.

The MEP explained that another important change concerns drivers above a certain age and the medical examinations they must undergo. EU member states have the right to flexibility in this area and, in his opinion, this is a very good decision, as a personalized approach is required. “Regular medical examinations are necessary. Once it has been established that you are fit to drive a motor vehicle, there is no reason why you should not be allowed to do so, regardless of your age,” said the MEP.

Novakov added that the adopted amendments also provide for unified rules for violations committed throughout the EU. He explained that, until now, if a French citizen committed a traffic offence in Bulgaria and had their license revoked, they could return to France, report it as lost and obtain a new license, thereby avoiding punishment. However, with the adopted changes, when the relevant authorities notify the other country properly, this problem will be avoided. According to Novakov, it is of the utmost importance that the 20,000 lives lost annually on Europe's roads are drastically reduced, and that the only acceptable figure is zero.

The MEP also noted that false positive field tests for alcohol and drug use by drivers are a major problem in Bulgaria and beyond. According to him, it is difficult for anyone to prove that they have not used prohibited substances since these tests are not produced in Bulgaria, and the technology does not allow two drugs to be distinguished. He added that it is important for countries to establish sufficient blood testing laboratories that can provide definitive results as to whether a person has taken drugs. “In the event of proven use, we must show zero tolerance, which is also the position of the European Parliament”, said Novakov.