The anti-drink driving campaign group says more could be done to prevent DUI offenses from re-occurring
Current police powers to deter bars and restaurants from serving alcohol to customers already intoxicated need to be enforced with fines to reduce the number of impaired driving cases.
Its a suggestion made by CADA, the anti-drink driving campaigners in response to the worrying numbers of those arrested for DUIs.
Executive Director Anthony Santucci was reacting to comments made by Acting Deputy Commissioner Martin Weekes who urged motorists to avoid endangering the lives of others through driving whilst impaired.
Mr. Weekes stated, “The Bermuda Police Service remains resolute in its efforts to combat drink driving.
“Worryingly, too many individuals continue to act in a selfish manner risking their own lives, as well as the lives of others by operating vehicles while impaired whether by alcohol or some other substance.”
Mr. Santucci, however, praised the work of the BPS but said more can be done.
With TIPS bartending certification, and roadside sobriety checkpoints in effect to clamp down on offenders, he also says there are other tools in their legislative powers that may be under utilized.
With April being Alcohol Awareness Month, CADA says licensed establishments carry equal responsibility to prevent DUI cases arising.
Senior Magistrate Maxanne Anderson had previously been quoted in the daily citing CADA’s estimates that around 75% of road deaths logged in Bermuda were connected to drug and alcohol use and called for a culture shift in attitudes toward drink driving.
A BPS spokesperson said, “There has not been any instance where the Bermuda Police Service arrested anyone or penalised any establishments for serving alcohol to someone already impaired.”
