23 May 2007
Police are becoming increasingly concerned at the rise in impaired drivers and say the incidence of drink-driving has risen alarmingly over the last year. This does not appear to be restricted to any specific area, the issue is a national one although some areas are worse than others.
The 2007 year to date road toll is currently 13 more killed than at the same time last year with 156 killed so far. This year alone, 43 deaths (27.6%) were alcohol related.
Superintendent Dave Cliff, the National Road Policing Manager says that the explanation for this rise in drink drivers is complex and appears to be the result of a combination of factors.
"A number of drivers appear to have become immune to the drink- drive messages and do not believe that they will be apprehended", he said today.
"This is, of course, a misapprehension, but does not change the fact that we do have an alarming rise in the numbers of drivers detected who are impaired and definitely not safe on the roads."
New Zealand driving conditions have always required every driver to be vigilant. Our community is diverse, the roads hazardous and largely rural. All drivers need to drive to the conditions at all times.
"These people are endangering us all and it is a situation that neither the Police or the public should tolerate," he said.
ENDS
Drink driving related offences from 2003 up to May 2007, by district are available. Those who want an email version please contact:
Jane Archibald
Media Advisor
NZ Police - Road Policing
04 474 9442