Lower alcohol limit on its way

Police preparations for the lowered drink-driving limits are in full swing - and a wide-ranging publicity campaign is advising drivers to play safe by avoiding alcohol altogether or arranging alternative transport.

From 1 December the limit for drivers over 20 lowers from 400mcg of alcohol per litre of breath to 250mcg, and from 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood (0.08), to 50mg (0.05). For drivers under 20, the limit remains zero.

Adult drivers blowing 251-400mcg of alcohol per litre of breath will receive an infringement notice ($200) and 50 demerit points. Those over 400mcg will face criminal charges, as now.

Research indicates an additional 19,000 drivers could fall into the infringement range annually but it’s impossible to predict numbers with certainty, says Superintendent Carey Griffiths, National Manager Road Policing.

“The number of drink-drive prosecutions is steadily decreasing and we anticipate the lowered level will have a strong deterrent effect. Staff talking to motorists say many are already taking the new limits on board.”

There is no ‘safe’ level of alcohol for driving, and the best advice is to avoid any doubt by choosing not to drive if you are going to drink. Call a taxi, take a bus or get someone who hasn’t been drinking to drive you home. Think ahead - it’s always easier if you have a plan.

The current NZTA advertising campaign publicising the forthcoming change includes bus shelter posters in main centres, radio ads and information on TV ads. Police in districts have been giving drivers leaflets.