Operation Eclipse: A Major Initiative to Combat Drink-Driving in South Canterbury

Operation Eclipse: A Major Initiative to Combat Drink-Driving in South Canterbury

Targeting Drink-Driving: The Operation Eclipse

A significant two-day campaign named Operation Eclipse was conducted in South Canterbury during the region’s long anniversary weekend. Acting Sergeant Ben Grant of the Aoraki Highway Patrol team spearheaded the operation, designed to challenge and address the attitudes towards drink-driving, particularly in rural areas. The operation was carried out from 6pm to 3am on both Friday and Saturday.

Operation Details: Breath-Testing and Patrols

Throughout the operation, 3,650 motorists were subjected to breath-testing at various locations across the region. The operation employed 14 vehicles, including a large booze bus, and 12 mobile patrols with a specific focus on rural roads. The aim of the operation extended beyond enforcement; it also served as a reminder of the constant vigilance of the police and the intention to reduce instances of road trauma due to impaired drivers.

Results: Enforcement Action and Positive Attitudes

The operation resulted in enforcement action against nine individuals, aged between 19 and 50. Five of these individuals were summoned to court, while four received infringement notices. The highest breath test reading recorded over the course of the operation was more than three times the legal limit of breath alcohol, clocking in at 865 micrograms.

Despite these concerning figures, Grant expressed gratitude for the large number of sober individuals who responsibly drove their intoxicated friends home. This demonstrated positive attitudes towards responsible drinking and driving. Praise was also extended to those who planned ahead and organized alternate transportation means if they intended to drink.

Rising Concern: Increase in Fatal Drink-Driving Crashes

However, Grant also underscored a troubling rise in fatal crashes involving drink-driving. In 2022, 111 people were killed in New Zealand in accidents where drivers were over the legal limit, marking a significant increase from 75 in 2021. In an attempt to counter this upward trend, Grant assured that similar operations are planned for the future. The Canterbury Impairment Prevention Team lent their assistance during both days of the operation.

Conclusion: A Continual Fight Against Drink-Driving

Operation Eclipse underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat drink-driving and the associated risks it poses to public safety. While the operation achieved some success, the increasing number of fatal crashes involving alcohol indicates a need for continued efforts. Through a combination of enforcement and education, it is hoped that the attitudes towards drink-driving, particularly in rural areas, can be shifted towards safer practices, ultimately reducing the instances of alcohol-related road trauma.