Is drink-driving a problem in NZ?
We have a big problem in New Zealand. Driving while imparied with alcohol is a factor in 30% of all fatal car crashes in New Zealand. These deaths on our roads wreak havoc in families and communities – and they are all preventable.
How many accidents are caused by alcohol in NZ?
In New Zealand, estimates indicate between 600 and 1000 people die each year from alcohol-related causes (Berl 2009; Connor et al 2005). More than half of alcohol-related deaths are due to injuries, one-quarter to cancer and one-quarter to other chronic diseases (Connor el et 2005).
What is the penalty for drink-driving in NZ?
Court-imposed penalties for alcohol/drugs offences
| Offence | Amount of alcohol | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Blood | Fine | |
| You drive, or try to drive, after drinking too much or taking drugs | More than 80mg per 100ml | Up to $4500 |
| Third and subsequent offences | ||
| Up to $6000 |
Is it zero tolerance for drink-driving in NZ?
In New Zealand, the alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 years and over is 250 micrograms (mcg) of alcohol per litre of breath and the blood alcohol limit is 50 milligrams (mg) per 100 millilitres (ml) of blood. If you are under 20, the alcohol limit for drivers is zero.
How many people died drunk driving NZ?
Between 2017 and 2019, for every 100 alcohol or drug-impaired drivers or riders who died in road crashes, 27 of their passengers and 32 other road users died with them. The risk of crashing increases with the amount of alcohol in the blood at the time of driving.
Do you always lose your licence for drink driving?
Convictions in drink drive cases usually lead to automatic disqualification from driving for at least 12 months and can be for far longer depending on the reading and/or whether there are aggravating features such as the manner of driving or whether an accident was involved.
How do I get out of drink driving charge NZ?
If you are facing a drink driving charge it is wise to immediately enrol in alcohol counselling. This is particularly so where you are facing a third or subsequent charge where the maximum penalty increases from three months imprisonment to two years.
Is New Zealand known for drinking?
Currently, on average 80 percent of New Zealanders are regularly drinking alcohol according to the New Zealand Drug Foundation. Addiction continues to be a substantial problem in our communities across all socio-economic populations.
Why is alcohol an issue in NZ?
Harmful consequences associated with alcohol use include health conditions and injuries, hospital admissions, deaths, road accidents and assaults. Alcohol is a key driver of social and health inequities especially for Māori, young people and lower socio-economic communities.
Is it worth getting a solicitor for drink driving?
If you get a court summons or are charged with a drink driving related offence by the police you should seek expert legal advice from a solicitor as soon as possible.