Over limit drivers put ‘lives on the line’

TASMANIA Police has revealed officers intercepted three motorists in a 15-minute period in Launceston, all allegedly driving with a high-range level of blood-alcohol.

The Wednesday night arrests followed on from a dramatic day on the city’s roads, with significant multi-vehicle accidents at Frederick St, between Bathurst and Wellington streets, and the intersection of Midland Highway and Howick St, both of which caused traffic chaos.

In regards to the alleged high-range drink-drivers, police said a 30-year-old Launceston man was intercepted on Wellington St, Launceston, driving at night without headlights and with a blood-alcohol content of 0.18 per cent.

A 44-year-old South Launceston man was also intercepted on the Midland Highway (Southern Outlet) allegedly driving with a BAC of 0.16 per cent.

Both men were immediately disqualified from driving and will face court in relation to exceeding the prescribed alcohol limit and driving under the influence of alcohol. They are due to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court on August 24.

Finally, a 21-year-old Hobart man was located at Country Club Villas, after allegedly crashing into a parked car and bollards.

He was charged with highrange drink-driving after returning a BAC of 0.19 per cent.

As a provisional licence holder, he was immediately disqualified from driving for 12 months and will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court at a later date.

“Never drive after drinking – you’ll be putting more than your own life on the line,” Sergeant Josh Hayes said.

He urged the public to report dangerous driving immediately to police on 131 444 or ring triple-0 if it is an emergency.