The holidays are a time spent creating memories and #UnwrappingMoments with loved ones. This December, through traffic education and enforcement initiatives, the Alberta RCMP is working to ensure you and yours arrive home safely. The Alberta RCMP is promoting sober driving through National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day on Saturday, Dec. 4. As part of the annual, Canada-wide initiative, Alberta RCMP will be patrolling our provincial highways and conducting check stops, removing impaired drivers from the roadways.
The Alberta RCMP asks motorists to remember the following:
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs your judgment and reaction time.
- Impaired driving is criminal and dangerous.
- Mandatory Alcohol Screening is used by Alberta RCMP to deter and detect impaired drivers. If you are pulled over or at a check stop, you can expect to provide a breath sample.
- Individuals with a Graduated Driver's Licence must abide by the zero tolerance law (Government of Alberta, 2021).
- Impaired driving is always preventable and can always be avoided. Call a taxi or rideshare service, use a designated driver, or stay the night.
- Call 911 if you witness or suspect impaired driving.
"In December 2020, a total of 560 impaired drivers were removed from the roads," says Supt. Gary Graham, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. "Every time you get behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you not only risk your own safety, but also the safety of others. Don't be the reason someone doesn't make it home for the holidays."
For more traffic safety information, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and Twitter @RCMPAlberta, along with the hashtag #UnwrappingMoments.