Hawke’s Bay Police ramped up their summer Road Policing campaign last night with a highly visible alcohol checkpoint on SH50A, near Pakowhai.
During the five hour checkpoint approximately 3,000 vehicles were stopped and the driver breath tested. Of this, 13 people returned positive results and were stopped from driving while five vehicles were also impounded from disqualified drivers.
Sergeant Kent Gilmore of the Eastern District Traffic Alcohol Group (TAG) says staff were overwhelmed by the good nature and support displayed by the majority of people who were driving responsibly.
“But the number of drivers still willing to risk harming others in the community by driving whilst impaired is extremely alarming.
“We will be out in force on the roads this summer to spread the message that road safety is everyone’s responsibility and needs to be taken seriously.
“You have to stop your whanau, friends and colleagues from driving after they have been drinking alcoholic beverages,” says Mr Gilmore.
Hawke’s Bay Police have seen alcohol, speed and the lack of restraint wearing continuing to contribute to fatalities and an escalation in serious injury crashes over the past year.
“The public can expect the Police to be very active in targeting these issues this summer.
Eastern District Road Policing Manager Inspector Matt Broderick says three simple things are guaranteed to improve your chances in a road crash.
“Do not drive while impaired, buckle up buttercup and drive within the speed limits.”
Inspector Tania Kura, Hawke’s Bay Area Commander, joined the checkpoint and the 25 staff involved last night.
“The staff involved in this operation came from a variety of work groups and focuses within Police, not just Road Policing.
“This demonstrates that all Hawke’s Bay Police are committed to keeping our communities safer, and behaviour on the roads is a huge part of this,” says Ms Kura.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre