19 December 2014

Stay safe on our roads this Christmas

Peter Katsambanis MLC, Member for North Metropolitan Region, has urged all Western Australians to obey the road rules and stay safe on our roads this holiday season.

“Unfortunately every year families around Western Australia are faced with the trauma of losing a loved one in a road crash over the Christmas holiday period.” Mr Katsambanis said.

“Every day, WA Police will be out in force to keep our roads safe. Do not drink and drive, be patient when driving and stick to the road rules to make sure you and your family arrive safely.

“Unfortunately this message does not get through to some people. Last year over 389 drink drivers were caught over the Christmas period.

“That means around 22 people were caught drink driving every day. These people were putting themselves and everyone else on our roads in serious danger.

The Double Demerit period commenced at midnight Friday 19 December and will conclude at midnight Sunday 4 January.

Between January and December 2014, at least 15 fatal crashes and 23 serious crashes were caused by drink drivers. In the same period, 2,176 drivers were caught over the blood alcohol limit.

“We want everyone to enjoy this time of the year and not have the tragedy of having to deal with the death or serious injury of a loved one.

“Please be responsible and ensure your family and friends are doing the right thing too.” Mr Katsambanis concluded.

For more information on all WA road rules and penalties, please visit: http://www.ors.wa.gov.au/road-safety-topics/road-issues/road-rules-and-penalties