A crash in Kawakawa Bay could have ended in tragedy after the driver was more than five times the legal alcohol limit.
While the driver will face court, Police are sending a strong reminder about the dangers of driving while distracted and impaired.
The single vehicle crash occurred on Monday, around 5pm, on Clevedon-Kawakawa Road after it left the road and collided with a pole.
Power lines were brought down forcing one lane to be closed, Counties Manukau South Area Commander, Inspector Joe Hunter says.
¡°It is miraculous that the driver emerged from the vehicle unharmed, and that no other road user was hurt.
¡°The driver was spoken to, and it was established he was likely distracted by his mobile phone when he veered off the road.¡±
Concerningly, the man also allegedly returned a breath alcohol reading of 1305mcg.
¡°It is very clear the alleged behaviour of this man put not only himself, but the community at risk last night,¡± Inspector Hunter says.
¡°This road is a vital link between the Kawakawa Bay and Clevedon communities, and at that time of the evening there are a number of people travelling.¡±
Inspector Hunter says in the end the damage was only to a vehicle and power lines.
¡°Our staff could have likely been dealing with a loss of life, or medical professionals working to treat people with serious or life altering injuries.
¡°The message is so simple ¨C if you¡¯re going to be drinking, do not get behind the wheel.¡±
A 33-year-old Papakura man has been suspended from driving and will appear in court at a later date over the incident.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/51½ÖÉä