90% road accidents in Tonga are alcohol-related

The Magistrates Court in Tonga has heard that 90% of road accidents and deaths are caused by drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol.

During the trial of Fakaola Mei Langi Tonga Tutoatasi Fakafanua, the court also heard that there has been an increase in drink driving cases.

Tutoatasi was fined $400 by the court today for driving under the influence of alcohol on Vuna Road in Ma’ufanga.

The court heard he his blood alcohol content was 450ml at the time he was driving.

Magistrate Salesi Mafi told the court that if a person has a blood alcohol content of over 250ml, he is liable to pay a fine of $200.

Drivers who are fined more than $500 are also forbidden from using their driver’s license.

While imposing a fine on Tutoatasi, the magistrate reminded everyone in the court room not to consume alcohol while driving.

Magistrate Mafi spoke of the harm it would cause not just to the drivers but passengers and pedestrians.

Authorities in Tonga have expressed concern about the number of cases of fatal road accidents as well as road accidents involving drink driving in the past few months.

Tonga Police use check points to monitor drivers and apprehend those who may be driving under the influence of alcohol.

     

Author: 
Malia Va’enuku Penisini