Young drivers and Christmas cheer

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 33095, 9 December 1972, Page 14

Young drivers and Christmas cheer

Unless nearly half the motorists on New Zealand roads are aged 25 or younger — which is unlikely — a disturbingly high proportion of young drivers are too addicted to drink to drive safely. The Ministry of Transport reports that 45 per cent of drivers tested for excessive alcohol in their blood last year were aged 25 or under. A third of those tested who were under 20 had blood alcohol levels of 150 milligrams per 100 millilitres or higher; in the age range from 20 to 25 the proportion was 55 per cent The figures suggest an alarming consumption of alcohol by young drivers — even those who are too young to be served legally in hotels. They suggest an even more alarming irresponsibility on the part of young drivers when lack Of experience is associated with excessive alcohol. In the season of Christmas parties the Ministry’s figures are particularly disturbing. In the next week or two there will be many staff parties and private functions where youngsters might be encouraged to drink. Those who are responsible for organising and running such functions should be aware of the dangers they invite, however unwittingly. Young drivers should learn from the start that alcohol and motoring do not go together. Older motorists have an obligation to set a good example. All drivers should remind themselves of the legal restraints on driving after more than a few drinks. No motorist should expect leniency from the law, even in the weeks before Christmas, if his condition makes him a danger to other road users. And anyone organising a function where young people will be drinking should take pains to ensure that those who are unfit to drive are not permitted to do so.