Most people would not be able to stand after consuming enough alcohol to blow over six times the legal limit, let alone get behind the wheel and drive.
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Yet Tamworth Police arrested a man in the early hours this morning after he returned a dangerous blood alcohol reading of 0.318.
A blood alcohol concentration of over 0.250 can cause poisoning and loss of consciousness.
Officers stopped the car on Kathleen Street in South Tamworth at 1.10am, just after the midnight conclusion of a three day road safety operation.
When officers saw the reading, the 25-year-old Hillvue man was arrested and taken back to the station for a further blood analysis test, which was again returned a high-range reading of 0.318.
He was bailed and is set to face Tamworth Local Court at a later date.
His arrest comes just over an hour after NSW Police concluded a road safety operation over the Christmas period.
Double-demerit points were in force throughout the period for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences.
Other high-risk driver behaviour, including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving were targeted.
Nearly 2100 speeding fines and almost 1500 infringement notices were issued for other driving offences.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb, said community safety is always the main priority for police.
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"After the year that we have had, we want the community to arrive at their destinations safely to celebrate the festivities with family and friends. Help us keep you and your loved ones safe, there is no excuse for reckless and selfish behaviour," Assistant Commissioner Webb said.
"Police will have a presence on all roads across the state, from major motorways to rural backroads, so have a Plan B to get home safely if you're drinking, keep to the speed limit and always wear seatbelts.
"We continue to encourage the public to report anyone they see or know of breaking the law with the Four Ds - drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving - to Crime Stoppers."
