According to statistics, the percentage of fatalities and casualties on Lower Mid North Coast roads as a result of drink-driving is considerably higher than the State.
The alarming statistics have been provided by the RMS.
MidCoast Council road safety officer Chris Dimarco is appealing to local drivers to work together to improve these figures.
“The number of people dying on our roads after consuming alcohol is very disappointing as these fatalities may have been avoided with some better planning,” Mr Dimarco said.
While he was encouraged by the efforts of licensees and bottle shops across the region to promote the Plan B message to their patrons and customers, he said it was time for motorists to take these statistics seriously.
Throughout the MidCoast local government area (LGA) 54 per cent of drink driving charges relate to drink drivers who have been consuming alcohol at home or at a private residence.
“Too many drivers are putting at risk all road users by not forward thinking and making a Plan B when consuming alcohol at private premises.
“Organising a designated driver, pre-booking a taxi or staying overnight are all possible options that need to come into play when alcohol is involved."
Alarmingly, during the recent three year period, fatal crashes involving alcohol as a contributing factor make up 27 per cent in the Mid Coast LGA, compared to 18 per cent across the Hunter and 14 per cent across the State.
Casualties on our roads as a result of drink driving are nine per cent on the Mid Coast, while the Hunter has six per cent and four per cent across the State.
Mayor, David West echoed Mr Dimarco’s comments and said road users needed to take responsibility for themselves and everyone around them.
As a former police officer, I’ve seen too many lives ruined and forever changed as a result of drink-driving
- MidCoast Council mayor David West
“As a former police officer, I’ve seen too many lives ruined and forever changed as a result of drink-driving,” Cr West said.
“This has an enormous impact on the officers who attend these accidents, and on the families of those involved. When you drink and drive, and have an accident, it impacts on so many people, particularly those you love – the message is simple, just don’t do it, have a Plan B.”
The Plan B campaign is particularly vital over the busy Christmas holiday period, when the Mid Coast LGA population swells with tourists.
“During the festive season our beautiful area becomes very busy with an influx of people and vehicles,” Mr Dimarco said.
“We need all road users, drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and mobility scooter users to take care, show patience and respect others, and if you’re going to drink then please, don’t drive!”
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