Police will be out in force patrolling bars, roads and highways to prevent alcohol-related accidents. File photo
Police will be out in force patrolling bars, roads and highways to prevent alcohol-related accidents. File photo
With Christmas parties and end-of-year functions in full swing, Police will be out in force tonight patrolling bars, roads and highways to prevent alcohol-related accidents.
Police will enforce a range of prevention-focused operations across the Wellington and greater Auckland districts, including random breath testing and alcohol checkpoints, speed enforcement, andfoot patrols through bars, clubs, and other venues.
They urge party-goers to be responsible around alcohol during the holiday season.
"Ideally we don't want to catch or ticket anyone during any of these operations," says Inspector Peter McKennie.
"Although it's the time of year that many start letting their hair down, all too often Police see people who take it too far and make unsafe decisions."
Alcohol and drugs were a contributing factor in 62 fatal traffic crashes, 336 serious injury crashes, and 784 minor injury crashes last year alone.
These crashes resulted in 70 deaths, 422 serious injuries and 1136 minor injuries.
To minimise accidents during the holidays, Police will also continue to enforce the reduced 4km/h speed threshold that will be in place until January 31, 2016.
