Police caught 18 drink drivers during a major road policing operation in Scoresby over the weekend.
Operation Chorus III, which was conducted over Friday and Saturday night, saw police conducting high volume alcohol and drug testing on the Eastlink, targeting impaired drivers.
Almost 3400 preliminary breath tests were conducted, and the highest roadside reading was .219.
One driver also tested positive for drugs and will be charged on summons.
Victoria Police is warning motorists there is a zero tolerance to drink and drug driving, with significant penalties for those who disregard the rules.
First time offenders who are fully licenced and over 26 years of age caught with a blood alcohol limit between 0.05 and 0.07 will receive a $593 fine and immediate three-month licence suspension.
The penalties increase substantially for those under 26 years of age, those required to have a zero blood or breath alcohol level, those caught for second or subsequent drink driving offences, and those caught over 0.07 or above – including larger fines, longer licence suspensions, alcohol interlocks, attendance at court and even jail time for the most serious offences.
Exceeding the prescribed concentration of drugs while driving carries a $593 penalty and a six-month licence suspension.
Police also impounded seven vehicles and detected six traffic offences during the operation.
A driver was caught speeding and a machete was allegedly located in his vehicle. He was charged with possess controlled weapon.
Operation Chorus III was conducted by highway patrol officers and uniform members from across the Eastern Region, with support from the Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section.
Quotes attributable to Acting Inspector Andrew Rodwell – Eastern Region:
“There are too many people drinking alcohol and getting into their car, putting themselves, their passengers and other road users at risk of major trauma.
“If you think you won’t be caught, think again. We’ll be conducting alcohol and drug testing anywhere at any time as we continue to crack down on impaired drivers.
“We need road users to completely separate these behaviours. If you’ve had alcohol or drugs, find a safer alternative way to get home. Alcohol, drugs and driving do not mix.”
