Plan a safe ride home before you head out

Motorists across the Waikato region can expect breath and drug testing at any time, day or night, as part of ongoing work to help keep people safe on our roads.

Driving while affected by alcohol, drugs or fatigue continues to cause real harm on our roads, including deaths and serious injuries that could often have been avoided. NZ Transport Agency, Waikato councils and New Zealand Police are working together to encourage people to make safe choices before getting behind the wheel.

“As Mayor, one of the things I care deeply about is seeing people in our community get home safely to their whānau,” says Hauraki District Council Mayor Toby Adams.

“As a volunteer firefighter, I have seen first-hand the impact road crashes have. It is not just those directly involved. The effects are felt by whānau, friends, emergency services and the wider community for a long time. Too many of these crashes involve alcohol, drugs or fatigue, and too many could have been prevented.”

During July and August, people will see advertising and education reminding them of the risks and consequences of drink or drug driving. This will be supported by increased Police enforcement across the region.

“The message is simple: if you are impaired, please do not drive. Make a plan before you head out — organise a sober driver, get a lift, call a taxi or rideshare, or walk if it is safe to do so. One poor decision can change lives forever. Looking after each other on our roads starts with making the safe choice before getting behind the wheel,” says Mayor Adams

Key messages:

• Drink driving is a leading contributor to deaths and serious injuries on New Zealand roads.
• If you’re at the point of doing booze maths to justifying driving after drinking, you should get a sober ride home.
• Police can be anywhere, anytime – we operate 24/7. If you choose to drive impaired, there is a real chance you will be stopped.
• Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Choosing not to drive after drinking is one simple decision that can save lives.
• You can always come across a NZ Police checkpoint on your way home, so make sure you get a sober driver sorted.
• Every road death has a ripple effect far beyond the crash scene, impacting whānau, friends, workmates and the wider community.
• If you are planning to drink, plan your ride home before you go out. A sober driver, taxi or rideshare is always the safer choice.

To learn more and to find tips on how to plan ahead visit New Zealand Transport Agency | Waka Kotahi