“Impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of preventable collisions resulting in death or injury,” says Sgt. Katie Davies of the EPS Impaired Driving Unit. “Our message is simple: choose a safe ride, or we’ll choose for you. If you plan to consume alcohol or drugs, make a safe ride home part of the plan.”
Impaired driving sanctions in Alberta can include immediate license suspension, vehicle seizure, and fines as well as a criminal charge(s). Drug-impaired driving carries the same penalties as alcohol impairment. In Canada, police have the legal authority to demand a driver provide a sample of breath regardless of whether the driver is showing signs of impairment, referred to as Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS). Refusing to provide a sample can result in immediate penalties and criminal charges.
If you are planning a night out:
- Plan your rides to and from events and celebrations in advance
- Use taxis, rideshare services and public transit
- Designate a driver to remain sober
- Call 911 if you suspect an impaired driver.
“Most drivers make good choices, and we appreciate that. We’re not out here to ruin anyone’s night,” adds Sgt. Davies “But for those few who think they’re okay to drive when they’re not, we’re urging them to think twice. Impairment isn’t always obvious to the person behind the wheel. But the consequences are.”
The EPS is also encouraging other drivers on the road to call 911 immediately if they suspect a driver is impaired.
“We consider impaired drivers an emergency,” says Sgt. Davies “As a road user, you are cognizant of what proper driving should look like, so if something feels off, go with your gut and call 911.”
Just this past weekend, the EPS partnered with the RCMP and Alberta Sheriffs for National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day to conduct several Checkstops in Edmonton and surrounding areas.
In a combined effort, more than 1,700 drivers were stopped, resulting in four drivers receiving Immediate Roadside Sanction (IRS) failures, six IRS warnings, two suspended drivers, and one drug recognition evaluation.
“The numbers from this weekend show that many people are making responsible choices, but impaired driving hasn’t disappeared from our roads. It’s encouraging but we’ll keep doing our part, and we’re asking motorists to keep doing theirs,” says Sgt. Davies.