Calls for the introduction of average speed cameras and stiffer penalties for repeat offenders of road rule breaches have been made by the Insurance Association of Malta.

These proposals could further improve safety on Maltese roads.

The association highlighted that Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri recently said 33,315 drivers were fined for speeding last year, a marked drop compared to the 43,761 speeding fines issued in 2024. It welcomed the news. But, it also said that the location of fixed cameras was widely known, limiting their long-term deterrent effect.

The association here has a point.

How often does one see cars slowing down right before a speed camera, only to speed up once they pass it? Very frequently. Average speed cameras would solve that issue, as it would measure the speed with which someone is driving from point A to point B. These cameras would need to ensure that the average speed proposed for an area between the two cameras is both safe and at the same time makes sense for the area. For instance having an average speed of 30 up a steep hill could cause problems for heavy vehicles. But generally speaking they would act as a better deterrent to speeding than the current cameras do.

Such technology should result in better safety in areas known for speeding, such as on the coast road for instance.

The association also called for stronger penalties for repeat offenders.

The driving point system introduced by the government a while back does help. But we have seen instances of people repeating dangerous road offences, and people can get hurt, have been hurt, or worse. The association argues that habitual speeding must carry escalating consequences. If a driver repeatedly ignores the rules of the road, then it makes sense that penalties escalate. Speeding puts the driver's life, and the lives of others at risk.

The association's proposal is for a driving licence suspension to be triggered after three speeding offences rather than four. It said that the current flat deduction of three penalty points per contravention would be replaced by a graduated system: three points for a first offence, four for a second, and five for a third. It is an idea the authorities should take under consideration.

The association also emphasised the importance of awareness campaigns, and suggested targeted measures using billboards, street furniture and Transport Malta's illuminated boards to reinforce responsible driving habits. Of course constantly reminding drivers of the dangers of dangerous driving ensures that the message gets across.

Another point it raised was the need for proper road maintenance, and here one must stress that if potholes are not dealt with quickly, they risk causing unnecessary accidents, especially for motorcyclists.

Constantly evaluating areas for risks, be it because of the need for road maintenance, or areas identified where people tend to speed, is a must to ensure the safety of all who use the road.