A drink driving course is an educational program that rehabilitates people caught driving under the influence. Aussie drivers tend to overestimate their driving skills when they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This results in unforeseen accidents and even hit-and-run incidents.
Such offences result in heavy penalties and even imprisonment. However, such offenders may still have the chance to redeem themselves through drunk driving programs. Courses like this help traffic law offenders refresh their ability to drive safely on streets and highways. Let’s find out in this article what these courses can offer.
Safe Driving Behaviour: Alcohol and Drug Limits
NSW Government reiterates that road safety translates to making smart choices. This information covers the key rules and risks of alcohol and drug consumption while driving in NSW:
Alcohol
- Legal limits: Different limits apply based on your driver’s licence type. Always stay under the limit (0.05 for most drivers).
- Drinking while driving: Even if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the limit, it’s illegal to drink any alcohol while driving.
- Random breath testing: Police can stop you anytime to test your BAC. Refusal is an offence.
- Penalties: Fines, licence suspension, prison, or alcohol interlock are possible consequences.
Drugs
- Illegal drugs: Driving with any illegal drug in your system is prohibited.
- Prescription and over-the-counter drugs: Some medications can impair driving. Read labels and consult your doctor if unsure.
- Mixing drugs and alcohol: This is extremely dangerous and increases crash risk.
- Drug testing: Police can use saliva or blood/urine tests to detect drug use. Refusal is an offence.
- Penalties: Fines, licence suspension, and even prison are possible consequences.
Never drive under the influence of any substance. So, plan ahead for transportation if you plan to drink or use medication. Be aware of the dangers and consequences of drink and drug driving like a drink driving course and heavy penalties.
Drunk Driving Course in NSW
Got caught drink driving? The Sober Driver Program is a type of drunk driving course that can help. This program helps drivers convicted of serious or repeat offences understand the impact of their actions. It also develops strategies to avoid driving under the influence again. The Sober Driving Program is a 20-hour group therapy program focusing on:
- Consequences of drink driving
- Triggers and decision-making leading to drink driving offences
- Strategies to prevent future offences
- Skills and positive attitudes for safe driving
Who usually needs this drink driving course or program?
- Drivers convicted of serious or repeat offences
- Under supervision of Corrective Services NSW
- With an interlock exemption order
What can one expect?
- Educational and therapeutic sessions covering:
- Impact of drink driving
- Alcohol’s effect on driving
- Managing drinking situations
- Relapse prevention
- Trained facilitators leading discussions and group learning
- Small group format (8-12 participants) for personalized support
How to register:
- Corrective Services NSW supervision: Contact your local Community Corrections Office.
- Interlock exemption: Register on the Managed Training Services website.
- Unsure of eligibility? Check “program participants” information.
The cost of this drink driving course is free for participants under Corrective Services NSW supervision. However a $700 fee applies for those with interlock exemption orders (financial assistance available).
Upon completion, receive a Certificate of Completion. If you are supervised by Corrective Services NSW, the completion is recorded electronically. Courts may request progress updates from Community Corrections for monitoring purposes. For interlock exemption holders, certificate presented to TfNSW for new licence application.
What You Need to Know About Traffic Offenders Programs
Caught a traffic violation and looking for a drink driving course? Don’t worry, there’s a path to regaining your confidence and improving your driving habits. Traffic Offenders Rehabilitation Programs (TORP) are here to help!
What is TORP?
TORP is a court-approved drink driving course or online program designed specifically for drivers who have committed traffic offences. They equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to develop positive driving attitudes and break negative habits. Their ultimate goal? To keep you and others safe on the road. TORP offers programs in four convenient locations across New South Wales:
- Sydney CBD (near Hyde Park)
- Parramatta (Western Sydney)
- Manly (Northern Beaches)
- Newcastle (Mid-Coast NSW)
Most programs run on a single Saturday from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Manly operates slightly differently with two 3-hour sessions on designated weeknights each month. Here are some benefits of this drink driving course?
- Learn from experts: Gain valuable insights from qualified professionals like police, emergency services personnel, and road safety specialists.
- Improve your driving: Develop safer driving habits and learn to make informed decisions behind the wheel.
- Demonstrate accountability: Show the court you’re taking responsibility for your actions and committed to change.
- Potential sentence reduction: While not guaranteed, completing the program may positively influence your sentence.
The drink driving course or program delves into eight key areas crucial for responsible driving:
- Impact of traffic offences: Understand the serious consequences of your actions on yourself, others, and emergency services.
- Road trauma: See the real-life impact of crashes through victim stories and expert perspectives.
- Driving under the influence: Learn about the dangers of alcohol and drugs on driving ability and legal implications.
- Legal information: Get a clear understanding of traffic laws and your rights and responsibilities as a driver. It’s highly advised to consult with a traffic lawyer for better results.
- Vehicle maintenance: Discover the importance of proper car care for safety and preventing future offences.
- Driver behaviour & speeding: Explore the psychology behind risky driving and develop strategies to avoid speeding.
Visit the TORP website to see upcoming program dates and register for a location near you. The program fee is $180, and successful completion earns you a certificate sent to the court.
Need a Second Chance on the Road?
We understand that some drivers should be accountable for traffic offences and admit to their mistakes. If given the chance, they should take a drink driving course to correct their actions and help them get back on track with their lives especially when on the road.
JB Solicitors can help a drink and drug driver get the representation you need if you have legal matters for traffic offences. We can also help identify the right kind or type of drunk driving course or program for your needs. Our traffic lawyers believes that drivers who admits to their traffic offences deserve a second chance on the road.
Let us help you with your traffic offence or drunk driving program needs. Contact us today for a private consultation.
