By 1news.co.nz and is republished with permission
A Papakura man, who was allegedly driving more than five times over the legal alcohol limit, escaped unharmed after crashing his vehicle into a pole.
According to police, the crash occurred around 5pm on Monday when the car veered off Clevedon-Kawakawa Road and crashed into a pole.
Power lines were brought down and a lane was closed as emergency services rushed to the scene.
The driver emerged from the vehicle unharmed, and no other road users were hurt in the crash, which Inspector Joe Hunter called “miraculous”.
Hunter said the man spoke to police, and it was established that he was ” likely distracted by his mobile phone when he veered off the road.”
Police also alleged the man returned a breath alcohol of 1305mcg. The legal limit in New Zealand is 250mcg, meaning he was five times over.
“It is very clear the alleged behaviour of this man put not only himself, but the community at risk last night,” Hunter said.
“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.”
A 33-year-old Papakura man has been suspended from driving and will appear in court on a later date.
Hunter said the crash was a good example of the dangers of driving while distracted and impaired.
“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 – if you’re going to be drinking, do not get behind the wheel.”
