Have a Plan B this festive season – don’t drink and drive

Several Councils have carpooled together to remind residents and visitors to have a Plan B before heading for a night out and to reinforce the safety message that drink driving is not an option.

Ku-ring-gai, Mosman and North Sydney Councils with Roads and Maritime Services are working closely with participating local bottle shops and licensed venues to support the initiative through the display of posters, drink coasters, bar runners, t-shirts and distribution of bottle bags that promote the Plan B message.

In 2016, over 600 crashes occurred in which alcohol was a contributing factor in the Sydney region. This resulted in over 400 casualties.

North Sydney Mayor Jilly Gibson said that the Plan B campaign was about encouraging people to make positive choices to get home safely.

“Planning ahead is important and powerful. Residents and workers can choose from many easy options to ensure a safe trip home, including trains, buses, taxis, or travelling with friends or family.”

Ku-ring-gai Mayor Jennifer Anderson said that the campaign highlighted the consequences of drinking before driving.

“Drink driving should never be an option – it puts motorists at greater risk of injuring or killing themselves and others through slower reflexes, reduced coordination and increased risk-taking behaviour, and of being caught.”

Mosman Mayor Carolyn Corrigan said that the state-wide Plan B education campaign will be paired with extra police patrols to keep our roads safe.

“This campaign is about keeping our community safe – especially over the festive season. Single use breath testers will also be available from some participating venues free of charge and local police will be out and about conducting random breath tests.”

Drivers caught under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs can face heavy fines, with penalties of up to 18 months in prison and a court imposed fine of up to $3300 for a first offence and up to $5500 for second offenders.