The Drumheller RCMP participated in this year’s National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day and it appears the message on drinking and driving is getting out.
Saturday, December 7 was National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day, and police forces across Canada were out in force performing check stops. Constable Keegan O’Hara tells the Mail that on December 7 the RCMP conducted two check stops.
The first check stop was 8:30 to 9 a.m. the police stopped 75 vehicles and there were no impaired charges. The second took place at 8:30 to 9: 30 p.m. At this one, they stopped 107 vehicles, and there were no impaired charges.
He says they will be doing more throughout the Christmas season.
Constable Jason Girard says tis the season to be merry and with everything from casual get-togethers to work functions, people need to plan ahead to make sure they are safe on the road.
He says it appears people are making the effort, especially since laws have become more stringent.
“I think it is getting better out there. People are more aware, and ever since any kind of traffic offense, there is mandatory roadside screening, it has made people think differently too,” said Girard.
Mandatory roadside screening came into effect with the legalization of recreational use of marijuana. While critics of the change felt police would see a rise in impaired charges due to marijuana, anecdotally Girard says that doesn’t seem to be the case.
“I haven’t seen too much of it personally myself, but that may depend on different areas too,” he said. “I think that is due to awareness and mandatory roadside screening.”
He says while it appears many people are being responsible behind the wheel, the RCMP will continue check stops throughout the holiday break.
“We are going to have some more RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) programs,” said Girard. “We have some joint operations planned with the sheriffs and with Commercial Vehicle Enforcement,” said Girard.
Bottom line is plan ahead.
“Be smart. Either have a sober driver or call a cab,” said Girard. “That’s the big thing. A lot more businesses even for Christmas functions, offer a bus or ride home service.”
