States cancel RBT over coronavirus fears’ was a common headline last month leading many drivers to believe that it is okay to drive after drinking because they won’t get caught. Fortunately this is NOT true with NSW Police continuing to conduct both random breath testing (RBT) and mobile drug testing (MDT).
NSW Police announced on Tuesday 17 March they would be pausing major roadside operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic. NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott, stated "officers will use their discretion to determine the viability of conducting stationary RBT and MDT".
The important point that many have overlooked is that mobile testing for alcohol and drugs will continue.
NSW Roads Minister Andrew Constance said there will still be policing on the roads and warned people will get caught if they drink and drive.
"There are still mobile drink driving tests happening across the road network, so you will get caught," said Mr Constance.
This message has been reinforced locally. “While stationary random testing has temporarily ceased, we continue to remain focused on traffic enforcement strategies including random mobile RBT and MDT,” said Sergeant Steve Mallam, Murrumbidgee Traffic and Highway Patrol Command.
“Over the last weekend in March there were two PCA offences (drink driving) and two positive drug tests. This demonstrates our commitment to keep our roads safe by stopping drivers affected by alcohol or drugs.”
Since 20 May 2019, drivers caught drink driving over the legal limit in NSW, even for a first-time or low-range offence, may have their licence suspended by police immediately – because drink driving has no place on our roads.
MDT in NSW operates alongside RBT for alcohol and targets four illicit drugs - cannabis, cocaine, speed/ice and ecstasy. MDT is not the only method to detect drug driving.
The second type of drug testing applies where a driver shows signs of being impaired by a drug. Police can arrest the driver if they suspect the driver is driving while impaired by illegal drugs or medicines and they fail a sobriety assessment. This is followed by testing to detect a wide range of illegal drugs, as well as medicines.
Double demerits will still apply from Thursday 9 April to Monday 13 April inclusive. Drivers and motorcyclists caught speeding, using a mobile phone, not wearing a seatbelt or motorcycle helmet during this time will face double the points – not double the fine.
The last thing we want at this difficult time throughout Australia is the tragedy of a loved one or friend dying on our roads. Serious injuries from crashes would increase the pressure on hospitals and medical staff needed for the coronavirus response. It’s important all road users understand Traffic and Highway Patrol officers remain focused on their duties.
