Drunk driving cases concerning

Five people escaped serious injury after they were involved in a motor vehicle accident in Saqani early this morning.

Director Traffic Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitieli Divuana said the driver of the vehicle is alleged to have been driving under the influence of alcohol.

The accident occurred in Delaivatu after 2am this morning. SSP Divuana said the driver had allegedly lost control of the vehicle causing it to veer off the road.

One of the four passengers was referred to the Savusavu Hospital while the rest of the occupants were treated and sent home.

The Director Traffic says drinking and driving poses significant threats to all road users, and is urging drivers to take the warnings seriously before it's too late.

“From the 1st of January 2024 to the 15th of November, 272 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence. These were 272 drivers who put their own lives and other innocent road users at extreme risk.”

The Director Traffic is pleading with drivers and pedestrians to adopt a change of mindset when it comes to road safety as we head into the festive season.

“When you choose to drink and drive, or over indulge in alcohol you ultimately are choosing injury or death as you will lose the ability to concentrate and coordinate."

"The festive season is often associated with parties and merry-making involving alcohol, and if we are to prevent further loss of life then everyone must adopt road safety practices whether you are a driver, passenger or pedestrian, as we all equally share the responsibility of road safety.