Media Release: GETTING DRUG DRIVERS OFF THE ROAD

Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) is pleased to support proposed drug driving legislation which it believes will reduce drug-related deaths on New Zealand’s rural roads.

“RWNZ Members believe that there are as many accidents on the road with people using illegal drugs as there are people drunk driving,” says Board Member and Social Issues Convenor, Sharron Davie-Martin.

“Drivers under the influence of illicit substances are a danger to themselves and others.

“We understand that currently, an illicit substance test is only carried out if the Police Officer suspects impairment and the driver does not show an alcohol reading.

“RWNZ believes that the testing of illicit substances needs to be mandatory and carried out at the same time as compulsory breath testing.

“Aotearoa New Zealand has too many road users losing their lives on our rural roads and any work done to reduce deaths and serious injuries is good for everyone.

“Drug driving is one of the road safety issues facing rural women, children, and communities, and it’s time we fixed it – let’s get drugged drivers off our rural roads,” says Mrs. Davie-Martin.

ENDS

For more information or to schedule an interview please contact Angela McLeod on 027 497 2761 or angela.mcleod@ruralwomennz.nz