As the world heads towards another festive season motorists need to abstain from drink driving during the season. It is on record that drink driving remains one of the major causes of crashes over the festive period.
According to road safety experts, adhering to this advice would in no small measure prevent the usual tragic statistics on our roads in December.
To discourage drink driving, Road Safety Partnership South Africa (RSP-SA) advised against sales of alcoholic drinks at by petrol stations.
While RSP-SA acknowledged that those who do indulge in drink driving will likely practice this dangerous habit wherever alcohol might be available, it urged all drivers to avoid drink driving during this festive season.
It is recommended that if a driver decides not to drink at an event, he or she should stick to that commitment and get home safely.
“If you do plan on drinking,” it advised, “arrange alternative ways to get home such as using taxi services, ride-hailing apps or appointing a designated driver. Do not go to any event with intentions to drink and then get behind the wheel even if you only plan on having one drink.”
The consequences of drink driving are tragic for everyone involved, especially for those not under the influence and who may lose their lives or be injured as a result of the careless actions of someone else.
The intoxicated driver will also face consequences of their own, should they escape unharmed. Starting 2022 facing jail time is not something any driver should want.
Do your part in ensuring that no one comes to harm during the festive season as a result of alcohol.
If fear of hurting others and yourself is not enough to convince you, remember insurance companies can repudiate a claim related to alcohol consumption much more easily than what the law can penalize you for.
An insurer only needs proof that a person was drinking, for example using surveillance footage at a bar, to reject a claim. A blood test is not necessary, which means you could also start 2022 without transportation.
“It is clear from examples and proof all around us that getting behind the wheel after a few drinks is an irresponsible and dangerous thing to do. As South Africans eagerly anticipate relaxation and enjoyment during December, we strongly urge all to never drive after drinking. The consequences are tragic and life-altering,” the RSP-SA added
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