More driver training 'better option'

Meta said the drink-driving changes were excellent, but they should go further and limit it to zero, as for the under-20s. Photo / File

The new drink-driving laws and police's zero tolerance approach to speeding have irritated online readers with some saying more driver training was needed instead.

Police introduced a zero tolerance approach to speeding and the legal limit for drivers over 20 years dropped from 400mcg of alcohol per litre of breath to 250 mcg. For drivers under 20, the limit remains at zero.

Adult drivers blowing from 251 to 400 mcg of alcohol per litre of breath will receive a $200 fine and 50 demerit points on their licence. Those over 400mcg will face criminal charges, as they've always done.

Mark said the drink-driving law was fine but the zero tolerance approach was bit of a money-making scheme. "If the police were really wanting to reduce the road toll, they would focus on the real issue - practical training."

He said most accidents involved young drivers with little experience.

Mark Jerling said reckless speed was the real problem. "This is just a money grab by the police and will do nothing to reduce the road toll. Drivers will just be more frustrated because everyone without GPS will be driving at 95km/h (until they hit the passing lane) and no one will be able to pass safely."

Charlie asked if people who drive at less than 95km/h should be fined too, to stop road rage. "Remove agricultural vehicles from the main highway and raise the heavy vehicle limit to 100km/h also. I don't believe the speed is the issue, lack of training is more the core issue."

Paul said: "So why throw a tantrum if you're caught between 251 and 400? Why drink and drive? Surely you put yours and others lives at risk so why moan about the fringes - just don't drink and drive. Think about it, be responsible."

Meta said the drink-driving changes were excellent, but they should go further and limit it to zero, as for the under-20s.

"Studies show that alcohol impairs driving hugely, even in small quantities. But the elimination of the speed tolerance is absolutely ridiculous - speedometers are not accurate, and second, driving speed inevitably varies by about 10km/h due to changing conditions (hills, bends, built-up areas, pedestrians, traffic).

"It seems the only way we can now be sure of not getting a ticket is to start driving 10 km/h below the posted limit ... imagine all the pointless traffic jams this will cause.

"Those who drive more than 10 km/h over the limit are ALREADY ignoring the tolerance; changing it will make no difference at all to these drivers' behaviour."