Drinkers scoring well on breath-test campaign

© Tevita Motulalo

Commissioner of Tonga Police, Christopher Kelley

USE of breathalysers have revealed manageable levels of drink-driving behaviour in Tonga,  according to Police Commissioner Christopher Kelley.

In December last year, Police carried out more than 4500 of vehicle stops for breathalyser testing. Only 1.66% of those drivers were detected with alcohol, and less than a third of them in violation of the law for drink driving.

In January, 558 drivers were stopped and tested, about 6% tested positive for alcohol whilst less than half of those tested positive were above the legal limit.

Although the figures seemed to be climbing, it is still too early to establish conclusions to the trends and behaviour of drunk-drivers. Add to that the very small proportion of those tested positive that infringed the law for the amount of alcohol allowed while driving.

“It seems drivers are paying heed to the message,” Commissioner Kelly said.

Once again he reiterates that drinking and driving significantly raises the probability of injury and death from reduced ability to control the wheel.

Twenty crashes were reported in January this year, compared to 11 at the same time last year. Three involved injuries, and one fatality.

But none was under the influence of alcohol.

Commissioner Kelley said it has been an established practice for Police to perform alcohol testing of drivers in every crash.

He confirms alcohol-breath testing throughout March, with particular target areas.

“Our advice is, ‘don’t drink and drive, get a taxi, have a sober driver, or walk home’. That way we all get to enjoy life a lot longer,” he said.

The limit once again, if the driver has more than 150 micrograms but less than 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath lands an instant $200 penalty and an infringement notice.

Anyone driving with more than 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath will be charged and tried.

- By Tevita Motulalo