News

The RCIPS continues to remind drivers of the importance of engaging in safe driving practices and avoiding behaviours such as driving while under the influence of alcohol.

“Over the last few months we have seen an increase in the number of traffic collisions during the last weekend of each month, which may coincide with pay days for many persons on island,” says Acting Superintendent Brad Ebanks. “Many DUI arrests are made as a result of traffic collisions,” he adds, “however as we step up our proactive DUI detection strategy, the number of persons stopped and arrested while driving drunk has also increased.”

Police are also reminding the staff at liquor licensed premises that they should be aware of the state of the patrons they are serving.

“It is within your power to refuse to continue serving persons who are showing obvious signs of being highly intoxicated,” says A/Supt. Ebanks. “We are grateful to the establishments that already do this as a matter of policy, and encourage all liquor licensed establishments to consider doing the same.”

“We want to be clear that this is not an issue that is restricted to one particular group of people,” says Inspector Andre Tahal of the Traffic and Roads Policing Unit. “The consequences of choosing to drive while under the influence are equally dangerous regardless of who it is that makes the choice.”

“We are reiterating our reminder: If you drink you must have an alternative means of transport,” says A/Supt. Ebanks. “So if you drink, plan to take a taxi or have a designated driver. Never drink and drive.”

The public is reminded that the current legal blood-alcohol limit in the Cayman Islands is 0.100%. If you are tested and found to have a blood-alcohol content at or exceeding this amount you will be subject to arrest. Upon conviction you are liable to a fine of $1,000, and will lose your driver’s license for a minimum period of 12 months. The penalties increase if you have previous DUI convictions.