Drinking and Driving still Common on Western Cape Roads

Many motorists on Western Cape roads continue to drink and drive over the festive season despite repeated warnings by traffic authorities that alcohol and roads don’t mix.

Provincial Traffic Services have been working around the clock to help create safer, booze-free roads. Officers do not hesitate to arrest drivers for if they are suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating drugs. Drunk drivers put their own lives and those of their passengers in danger, as well as the lives of other road users.

During the week of 14 to 21 December 2015, traffic officers stopped a total of 36 544 drivers in roadblocks. Alcohol breath-testing was performed on 5 052 motorists and 48 were arrested for being over the limit. Somerset West officials arrested the most drunken drivers (23). The highest breath alcohol reading was recorded in Somerset West. At 1,76 mg of alcohol/ 1 000 ml of breath, this is over seven times the legal limit of 0,24 mg/ 1 000 ml.

A total of nine vehicles were impounded for being unlicensed and/ or unroadworthy. A total of 47 vehicles were suspended from using the road until they have been certified as roadworthy and their owners have renewed their vehicle licences. The largest number of suspended vehicles (22) was recorded in the Somerset West service area.

Eight arrests were made in connection with false documentation, alleged bribery and minibus taxi/ public transport permit-related offences. The suspects are expected to appear in court soon.

If you’re drinking, don’t drive. Help us create booze-free roads. If you have friends or family who still drive under the influence, speak to them before they get into trouble with the law.