ACT Policing has joined in the festivities and fun of the Christmas season to urge members of the public to play it safe so they can get to party again another day.
A joint road safety campaign between ACT Policing and the Justice and Community Safety Directorate has been launched, focussing on alcohol and drug impaired driving over the holiday season.
Officer in Charge of Traffic Operations for ACT Policing, Acting Station Sergeant David Wills said that in 2017 the police charged 1,029 people with drink driving and 472 with drug driving.
“Police data shows the Territory has already exceeded these marks in 2018,” Acting Station Sergeant Wills said.
He said it was a disappointment to still see so many people arrested for impaired driving.
“The summer months bring a rise in parties, end of year celebrations and public holidays, but sadly we also see a rise in antisocial, illegal and potentially dangerous behaviour,” he said.
“Broadly, there are still far too many people being charged with drink and drug driving offences, which tells us people still aren’t getting the message when it comes to driving a vehicle while under the influence.”
He said those who drove while impaired by alcohol or drugs significantly increased the risk of causing a collision, potentially seriously injuring or killing themselves or someone else.
“We want people to enjoy their summer and their festive season, but if you break the law, you will face the consequences,” he said.
