The police were called to a car accident in Kopavogur, just south of Reykjavík, yesterday. Upon arrival, one of the parties involved was seen leaving the scene with an open beer can in their hand, Morgunblaðið reports.
The man is suspected of driving the vehicle under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and he is now detained in police custody for investigation. The driver and two people in the other car reported light injuries caused by seat belts and whiplash. Both cars were taken from the site of the accident.
Driving under the influence is taken very seriously in Iceland. If pulled over suspected of being drunk or high, police issue field sobriety tests. A breathyliser detecting as little as 0.3mg of alcohol per litre carries a fine of 90,000 ISK and the loss of driving rights for two months for a first offence. The fines and driving suspension times only increase from there, where you could end up paying up to 300,000 ISK and losing your license for 4 years—especially for a second offence.
Drinking and driving is extremely dangerous for yourself and others. Alcohol delays cognitive skills and hand-eye coordination, making it very dangerous to drive. If you’re partying, flip a coin with your friends and find a designated driver, or call a taxi.
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!
