Alarming number of drivers caught drink and drug driving in one state

Authorities have been left gobsmacked after a well publicised roadside testing blitz failed to make a dent in the number of positive tests.

An alarming number of drivers have been caught drink and drug driving during the first phase of a major road policing operation.

Despite numerous warnings for motorists to expect widespread alcohol and drug testing throughout December, police in Victoria have been shocked at the number of impaired drivers caught since Operation Roadwise began on 13 December.

Concerningly, all of those caught drinking driving were well over the limit, ranging between 0.085 and 0.190.

Police say they are shocked and appalled after a defiant spike in the number of drivers taking to the road while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Photo: iStock

At one pop up in the Geelong region, police caught a whopping 42 drink and drug drivers over a two-day period, while another blitz on the Monash Freeway netted 57, with a notable spike between 3am and 5am.

The shocking caseload comes despite numerous warnings from police in recent weeks as the state heads into the holiday period.

Describing the result as appalling, road policing assistant commissioner Glenn Weir said it “just shows that people are continuing to make really poor choices and are still opting to get behind the wheel after having a couple of drinks”.

Road policing assistant commissioner Glenn Weir said he’s appalled by the results of this year’s testing crack down. NewsWire/ David Crosling

It comes as police conducting preliminary breath tests in Port Melbourne tested a man who despite claiming to have had only one glass of wine, recorded a BAC of 0.230 - a reading that saw his licence suspended for twelve months and his car impounded for three weeks.

As the holiday period continues, Police will be working around the clock over the Christmas with alcohol and drug testing blitzes set to continue into the new year.

With Boxing Day typically drawing high numbers of ‘poor decision makers’, police say Victorians can expect to see a heavy police presence with “a significant focus on major arterials to coastal areas and popular holidays hotspots.”

Operation Roadwise commenced at 00:01 hours on Friday 13 December 2024 and concludes at 23:59 hours on Wednesday 1 January 2025.

“Expect to be tested and know that if run the gauntlet, you will be caught,” Mr Weir said.

“Let’s ensure everyone makes it home safely to spend Christmas and the New Year with their loved ones.”