Ben Graham DECEMBER 25, 2017
DRINK-DRIVERS could be given on-the-spot fines for low-range and first-time offences rather than facing court.
It means those caught without previous convictions in NSW and those who register blood alcohol levels under 0.10 will never have to face a magistrate. It is hoped the NSW Government proposals will declutter the court system.
The proposals under draft Road Safety Plan 2021 would bring the state in line with Victoria and save court resources for more serious offences, Fairfax Media reported.
First-time offenders would be either fined or be disqualified through penalty notices. However, not everyone is in favour of the changes with some in the legal profession saying it would not discourage people from reoffending.
In Victoria, drivers aged over 26 who register a blood alcohol limit of between 0.05 and 0.07 only receive an on-the-spot fine and lose 10 demerit points.