Christmas holidays followed by New Years celebrations can certainly make December a favourable month.
While the RCMP encourage Albertans to enjoy the festive season, they want to remind the public of the additional safety risks when it comes to impaired driving.
The Alberta RCMP participated in National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day on Dec. 7 which was a Canada-wide initiative targeted at removing impaired drivers off the road. A total of 10,960 vehicles were checked during this time and 48 individuals face charges for impaired operation of a motor vehicle by alcohol and four face charges for impaired operation of a motor vehicle by drugs.
Checkstops are a visible reminder that it is never okay to drive while under the influence. If you suspect someone is driving impaired call 911 immediately. Some possible signs of an impaired driver include:
- Weaving from one side of the lane to the other
- Taking extremely wide turns
- Driving at inconsistent speeds without headlights
- Failing to lower high beams or leaving turn signals on
- Approaching or leaving intersections too quickly or slowly
This holiday season, the RCMP advises the public to take time and plan for a sober ride to and from your destinations and to lead by example. There are other options to arrive home safely such as calling a cab, taking transit or arranging for a designated driver.
The Alberta RCMP will continue to work with Alberta Sheriffs and other law enforcement and safety partners to ensure Albertans are making the right driving decisions. Follow traffic safety tips on Facebook at @RCMPinAlberta and Twitter @RCMPAlberta.
