In a fortunate turn of events, five individuals narrowly avoided serious injuries following a vehicle accident in Saqani early this morning. The incident, which took place in Delaivatu shortly after 2 a.m., is believed to involve a driver under the influence of alcohol.
According to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mitieli Divuana, the driver lost control of the vehicle, leading it to veer off the road. While one of the four passengers was taken to Savusavu Hospital for treatment, the remaining occupants received medical attention and were subsequently discharged.
SSP Divuana emphasized the dangers of drinking and driving, highlighting that this behavior threatens not only the lives of the drivers but also the safety of other road users. He shared alarming statistics, stating that between January 1, 2024, and November 15, a total of 272 drivers were apprehended for driving under the influence.
As the festive season approaches, which is often marked by celebrations involving alcohol, the Director of Traffic is appealing to both drivers and pedestrians to reconsider their approach to road safety. He stressed the importance of adopting a proactive mindset regarding safety to prevent potential tragedies. “Choosing to drink and drive puts everyone at risk,” said Divuana, urging that all individuals—drivers, passengers, and pedestrians—must collectively commit to safer road practices.
This call to action serves as a reminder during this holiday season that safety is a shared responsibility, and with mindful choices, the community can reduce alcohol-related incidents on the road.
In summary, this incident not only highlights the critical need for responsible behavior on the road but also serves as an opportunity for awareness and education regarding the risks of impaired driving as we enter a season filled with celebrations.
A positive takeaway is that no serious injuries occurred, underscoring the potential for a shift towards safer practices among drivers during festive celebrations.
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