Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Every ACT Policing vehicle can enforce the road rules anywhere, anytime.
In Brief:
- There will be more drivers on the road during the summer.
- Road safety is a priority for the whole community.
- This story outlines how to be safe on the road as well as penalties for driving offences.
As the festive season kicks off and you are planning holidays, road trips and celebrations it’s crucial to remember that road safety should always be a top priority.
Whether you’re travelling interstate or staying in Canberra keeping safety in mind can ensure a smooth enjoyable journey for everyone on the road.
Impaired driving
With more people celebrating during the summer months, driving under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs is dangerous.
ACT Policing will have the power to immediately remove people who choose to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol by imposing immediate licence suspensions.
First time low-range drink drivers will receive an immediate fine. They will also receive a six-month loss of licence under the new infringement scheme.
In addition, a new combined drink and drug driving offence, for which penalties will be significantly higher than for separate drink and drug driving offences, will commence.
From 1 January 2025, roadside drug testing for cocaine will be in operation in addition to the current roadside drug testing for methamphetamine, MDMA or ecstasy, and cannabis that contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Every ACT Policing vehicle can enforce the road rules anywhere, anytime. So if you drink or take illegal drugs and drive, you can stop it…or cop it.
Plan your trip and take breaks
It’s important to plan your trip and take regular breaks. Plan to stop, rest, and stretch your legs to stay alert.
We know there will be more motorists on the road in summer, particularly on the Kings Highway. This is because Canberrans commute to holiday destinations on the south coast. No one wants to cause a serious crash or fatality that keeps families apart for the holidays so please:
- put the phone away
- slow down and drive to the conditions
- be patient during expected periods of congestion
- leave a safe distance with the vehicle in front
- rest when tired.
Keep distractions at bay
Research shows that driver distraction increases the risk of an accident. Taking your eyes off the road for more than two seconds doubles the risk of a crash, with mobile phones often being the source of that distraction.
Leave your phone alone while driving. Mobile device detection cameras are in operation in the ACT and fines apply.
Drive so others survive this summer.
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