Throughout the month of August, RCMP and other law enforcement agencies from across Alberta, continue with their patrols in a continuous effort to ensure our roadways are safe from impaired driving.
Impaired driving continues to be one of the leading preventable causes of death. Drivers who choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol not only put themselves at great risk, but also threaten the safety of everyone else on the road.
“If you knew of a proven, effective way to save lives and prevent injuries, would you subscribe to it, would you pay attention to and follow all the messages, would you change your behaviour and adhere to it?” asks Staff Sgt. Shawn LeMay of Alberta’s RCMP. “It’s very simple — don’t drink and drive.
“The message has been out there for years, and it needs to start sinking in fast, because ignoring the law and making poor decisions, is tragically impacting too many lives.”
From 2006 to 2010, 569 people were killed and 8,530 people were injured in alcohol-related collisions in Alberta. The highest number of collisions involving impaired drivers typically occur from May to October, and these crashes are often associated with special occasions such as long weekends.
Alberta Traffic Services and RCMP detachments throughout the province have initiated robust traffic action plans to fight this life-threatening criminal activity.
During August motorists will continue to see increased police presence on our roadways including several impaired driving Check Stops to enforce the new drinking and driving legislation, as well as to educate motorists.
“RCMP, like all Albertans, want our communities and roadways to be safe for everyone and we are doing whatever we can to save lives,” LeMay added.
If you’re planning a night out, getting home safely must be part of that plan. If you suspect an impaired driver, do the right thing, pull over and call 9-1-1.