Breath alcohol level five times over limit
A 31-year-old man's long weekend holiday was cut short almost before it even started when he was caught driving while five times over the legal breath alcohol limit.
A police spokeswoman said the man had been driving from Christchurch and was on his way to Invercargill when he was stopped by Oamaru police about 5.20pm yesterday.
Officers in Oamaru were notified by a member of the public about a vehicle driving dangerously on State Highway 1 north of Oamaru.
"A police unit saw the vehicle on the main street of Oamaru and signalled the vehicle to stop.
"The 31-year-old man, driving from Christchurch to Invercargill, returned a breath alcohol result over five times the legal limit."
The man was arrested and charged with excess breath alcohol.
He is due to appear in court at a later date.
Police thanked the member of the public who reported the man's driving behaviour.
As a result of the incident being so early in the King's Birthday Holiday weekend, Southern Police called on motorists to be responsible and drive safely on what is one of the busier holidays of the year.
"Police know there are four factors that can lead to fatalities and serious injuries on our roads — restraints, impairment through alcohol and drugs, distractions and speed.
"Motorists are urged to take greater responsibility on our roads and ensure everyone in their vehicle is able to reach their destination safely."
Police urged motorists to contact them immediately if they witnessed unsafe driving behaviour.
john.lewis@odt.co.nz
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