Frustration as drivers flout law

Margaret River police have noted a worrying increase in drink-drivers, with breath tests netting instant disqualifications for motorists during recent weekends.

Police officer-in-charge Sgt Luke Fowler said the trend was frustrating officers, who believed residents understood the risks of drink-driving “just aren’t worth it”.

Weekends were proving the main time for offences, but police were catching residents and visitors alike, he said.

“It’s enough locals that we’re concerned,” Sgt Fowler said.

“It seems like a bit of a blase attitude to drink-driving right now.

“We’re seeing multiple high-rating drink-driving offences every weekend.”

With news this week Margaret River Taxis could be set to fold, Sgt Fowler said he was concerned about the knock-on effect for people tempted to flout the law.

Police warned residents driving with an excess blood alcohol reading was the prime factor along with fatigue, speed, and inattention, in road crashes.

Officers also continued patrols on John Archibald Drive and were netting a steady number of speeders,” Sgt Fowler said.

“It’s very frustrating,” he said.

“The message just isn’t getting through.

“We’re going to keep being there because there’s been a series of very serious crashes (on that road).”

Any motorists who believed COVID-19 had halted breath tests were on notice that local police were still on the job, he said.

Some of the offenders faced licence disqualification on the spot, with Sgt Fowler noting many offered poor excuses.

Residents were making short trips into Margaret River “just to buy some hot chips” despite being under the influence.