Thirty-four drivers, aged between 24 and 63, are set to face court charges on December 19, 2024, for drink driving offences. These motorists were apprehended between August and December 2024 during Police enforcement checks, which detected alcohol consumption through breathalyser tests. Among them, two are repeat offenders, while two others face additional charges for abandoning their vehicles in ways that obstructed traffic and posed risks to others.
The two repeat offenders, aged 36 and 44, were stopped on September 30 and November 5, 2024, respectively. Investigations revealed they were driving under the influence of alcohol, and both had prior convictions for drink driving. Being repeat offenders, they will be charged under Section 67(1)(b) and Section 67(2)(b) of the Road Traffic Act 1961. Conviction under these sections carries mandatory imprisonment alongside other penalties.
The other two motorists, aged 52 and 33, left their cars in stationary positions that caused inconvenience and potential danger along Airport Road and Brickland Road. Investigations disclosed that both had consumed alcohol before falling asleep behind the wheel. In addition to drink driving charges under Section 67(1)(b) of the Road Traffic Act 1961, they will face charges under Section 122 for leaving a vehicle in a manner causing undue inconvenience to other road users.
The penalties for drink driving under Section 67(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 are stringent. First-time offenders may face fines ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, with fines ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, a maximum jail term of two years, and possible disqualification from driving all vehicle classes.
For offences under Section 122 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, offenders could be fined up to $2,000, jailed for up to three months, or both. In cases of repeat offences, the penalties increase to fines of up to $5,000 or a maximum six-month jail term, or both.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is widely condemned as an irresponsible and hazardous action. The Police have reiterated their firm stance against drink driving, emphasizing their commitment to strict enforcement to protect road safety. The public is strongly advised to avoid driving if planning to consume alcohol, with recommendations to use taxis, private hire vehicles, public transport, valet services, or designating a sober driver.
As the year-end festive period approaches, road users are reminded to adhere to traffic laws to ensure safety for everyone. The Police have stressed that firm action will continue against anyone found flouting these regulations, highlighting the dangers of drink driving and its potential to cause serious harm.
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