We boosted numbers in the Southern Police Region last weekend by teaming officers from varying duties with the Highway Patrol to target driver behaviours that risk road and community safety. It was timely, as it was the start of National Road Safety Week. Through media, we got people talking about road safety and considering the choices they are making on the roads. Some social media users expressed surprise that police still have to deal with people doing the wrong thing on the roads. Even though the operation had been widely publicised, I must admit I shared their amazement and disappointment that some still don’t get it.
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Over the course of the regional operation, we conducted in excess of 27500 alcohol and drug tests, with: 82 drivers arrested for drink driving; 53 testing positive for drugs; and 927 infringed for offences such as speeding, no seatbelts, and using mobile phones while driving. For our Hume Police District, we ran more than 4700 alcohol and drug tests, with seven motorists arrested for drink driving and nine returning a positive sample for drugs. There were also 90 infringement notices issued for a variety of safety offences.
When you look at the numbers, there is some comfort to see that the majority of people are responsible and do care for other road users. To check out some of the posts and keep up to date with the latest information in our policing area, go to 'The Hume Police District' on Facebook.
Why do we do operations like this and why are we so passionate about road safety? The answer is simple: the 126 lives that have been lost on NSW roads so far this year.
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– Superintendent Chris Schilt
