THE high number of drunk drivers is a problem in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape.
Despite extensive efforts to educate motorists about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, the number has not decreased as much as it should.
In 2021, a total of 118 drunk drivers were caught by the city's traffic services, 301 in 2022 and 367 so far in 2023.
Mitchell said in the past, traffic officers would arrest a drunk driver and take them to a hospital for a blood test and it could take weeks to get the results before charges were laid. Now that they have an approved centre, they can test a suspect and get accurate results within 15 minutes.
"Two tests are done in succession, the lower of which is considered evidence that can lead to a successful conviction if you are over the limit. The legal limit is 0.24mg of alcohol per 1000ml of breath. Our officers have introduced a zero tolerance to drinking and driving for the festive period and beyond,” said Mitchell.
Traffic and Licensing director Warren Prins said: "The high figures were worrying. We want to save lives and ensure that our road infrastructure is also protected from drunk drivers. With the festive season coming, these are some of the efforts to improve safety on our roads. Our residents and visitors have been warned."
