The first night of Operation Traction, a multi agency road safety operation in the lead up to Christmas, has been hailed a success with the vast majority of motorists heeding the message to drive safely and plan for taxis or sober drivers.
However, around 20 drunk drivers were apprehended and 45 unsafe or defective motor vehicles removed from the road, and a range of other offences were also detected.
Senior Sergeant Glenn Nalder of Canterbury road police says it is concerning that a minority of drivers are not getting the drink driving message. "Drunk drivers put themselves and every other road user at risk," he says.
"These drivers must have family and friends that know they are driving drunk – it’s up to them to step in, stop their mates driving drunk, and be a legend."
One driver caught last night was tested at more than twice the legal alcohol limit and will face his eighth drink driving charge. “This driver consistently puts other road users at risk. His license was suspended immediately, and he will face up to two years in prison and more than a year of being disqualified from driving. He may also have his car confiscated,” says Senior Sergeant Nalder.
Biggest surprise of the night was the driver who had not ensured his steering wheel was secured to his car.
“The NZTA officer inspecting the vehicle got quite a shock when the steering wheel came away in his hands. The driver claimed he had been doing some work on the car to get it road worthy - clearly not enough.
“The stupidity of this driver is beyond description. It was a disaster waiting to happen.”
The vehicle was removed from the road and the appropriate charges are being considered.
Senior Sergeant Nalder says Operation Traction will continue this week. There will be additional Police on Christchurch roads throughout the pre-Christmas period.
"We will be running additional checkpoints and all drivers can expect to be breath tested. Drunk or disqualified drivers will be removed from the road. If an unsafe vehicle is being used, it will be removed from the road.
“The message we want Christchurch drivers to get is slow down and drive at a safe speed. Be alert and stay off your cellphone when driving. Most of all don’t drink and drive. Plan your night out, plan for a sober driver or taxi.”
ENDS
Note: Final collated figures for offences, vehicles removed from the road etc, will be available early next week after the conclusion of Operation Traction.