THE Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department has secured 331 convictions for driving under the influence (DUI) so far in 2026, collecting more than $21.8 million in fines, as authorities step up enforcement against what they describe as a major and persistent public safety threat.
The department said the figures reflect ongoing efforts to detect and prosecute offenders, warning that alcohol-impaired driving continues to contribute significantly to road traffic crashes, injuries and deaths across the country.
Globally, road traffic injuries remain a leading cause of death among people aged 17 to 42, and officials noted that alcohol impairment is a major risk factor in a substantial proportion of these incidents. Driving under the influence, they emphasised, not only endangers the driver but also passengers, pedestrians and other road users.
Under Section 39A (1) of the law, it is an offence for any person to drive, attempt to drive, or be in charge of a motor vehicle with a breath or blood alcohol level exceeding the prescribed limit. Authorities stressed that impairment can begin well before reaching the legal threshold of 35 micrograms of alcohol.
Police outlined several dangers associated with drinking and driving, including impaired judgement, reduced coordination and slower reaction times. These effects can lead to poor decision-making behind the wheel, such as distracted driving, failure to maintain proper lane discipline, and delayed responses to sudden hazards.
Alcohol consumption also affects vision, causing blurriness and reduced peripheral awareness, which are critical for judging distances and detecting movement on the road. This combination of factors significantly increases the likelihood of collisions.
The Traffic Department warned that repeat offenders face severe consequences, including permanent disqualification from driving if convicted three times for DUI offences.
Authorities are urging motorists to make responsible choices, emphasising that the risks of driving under the influence far outweigh any perceived benefit. “Careful driving saves lives,” the department stressed, as it continues its campaign to reduce road fatalities and promote safer road use nationwide.