A recent stint working in some of New Zealand’s major Emergency Departments has left me a little flat. Reminiscent of scenes in the early nineties of attitudes to alcohol, driving and risks, the carnage was extreme. This combined with a few drivers overtaking in ridiculous situations while I was traveling to and from work made me wonder if people were oblivious to the media campaign about speed and alcohol. Why risk your own life and those of others so you can get to a takeaway bar five minutes earlier than someone else is beyond me. In fact Healthy Thinking escaped me and my grumpy unit was definitely switched on during one recent long trip on the road.

Many people have commented to me over the years how they know some back roads and can avoid police and random breath testing. Well not if you hit something and end up an Emergency Department. In fact ending up in an Emergency Department and having a blood alcohol test is more than some unfortunate and innocent victims get. They end up in a morgue, often from just being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

If you are reading this maybe you have a great attitude and don’t drink and drive. Maybe you can make a mistake like so many. It would seem that a certain percentage are a disaster waiting to happen. Our roads are not safe. Take care out there because it’s a bit like Russian roulette. If you see someone driving erratically dial *555 on your phone or your country equivalent (pull over first!). It might save someone’s life. If someone else does, it may save yours!