As the Christmas party season kicks off, police say large fines and suspended licences await those who drink and drive.
A woman has lost her licence after allegedly crashing into a parked car on Monday, prompting renewed calls for motorists to avoid drink driving this holiday season.
The 28-year-old from Melbourne’s west had been attending a work function before allegedly driving with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.288 – almost six times over the legal limit of 0.05 – according to a statement from Victoria Police.
“December has been identified as one of the highest-risk periods for road trauma,” Road Policing Command Acting Assistant Commissioner Justin Goldsmith told Drive.
“Intelligence shows that social gatherings and pre-Christmas functions during this period increase the likelihood of alcohol and drug consumption.”
Motorists in Victoria found to have been driving with a BAC of 0.05 or more can expect a minimum fine of $555 and three months off the road – with greater penalties for younger drivers or those with a BAC of 0.07 or more.
Victorians who blow 0.15 or more can expect a date in court, with a minimum 15-month loss of licence.
“The safest option is, if you’re going to drink, don’t drive. Plan ahead, and consider how you’ll get home safely from an event without driving,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Goldsmith said.
“Motorists should consider that every police vehicle has the capability to test for impaired drivers – anytime, anywhere,” he added.
In Sydney, a 35-year-old woman has allegedly tested positive to cannabis, despite driving with a number of unrestrained children in her Holden Vectra.
New South Wales Police Force has renewed its call for those under the influence of drugs or alcohol to find alternative means of transport this month – a period of increased traffic due to holidaymakers.
“We continue to see examples of irresponsible driving behaviour, including drink and drug driving, distraction, not using a seat belt and fatigue, which all lead to serious crashes and fatalities on NSW roads,” a spokesperson for NSW Police told Drive.
Drivers are warned police will be increasing their presence over the holiday period, operating random roadside testing in all Australian states and territories.
“We will be conducting extensive alcohol and drug testing in the lead up to Christmas and over the New Year period – motorists should expect to be tested,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Goldsmith from Victoria Police said.
“We won’t hesitate to remove impaired drivers from our roads, as they pose a serious risk to all road users.”
The post Police warn revellers against drink driving this holiday season following crash appeared first on Drive.
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