A BC Highway Patrol officer mans an impaired driving check stop on a lonely side road at night using lighted cones and his police cruiser. (Image Credit: BC Highway Patrol)
It’s the most dangerous time of year on British Columbia roads as impaired driving increases, and BC Highway Patrol is reminding people to be careful on our roads.
The annual Summer Impaired Driving Campaign has officially launched today (June 15) and continues until July 31.
Previously, it ran until August 31, but due to June and July being the busiest times, the timeline has shifted to reflect reality and save lives on our roads.
“It makes sense to align the Summer Impaired Driving Campaign with the time of year where people are choosing the riskiest behaviours,” says Inspector Adam Tallboy, BC Highway Patrol.
“This isn’t just about awareness. We’re trying to get drivers to change their behaviours and save their own lives and the lives of the people around them.”
To stay safe on BC roads this summer, remember to:
- Plan a safe ride home by using a reliable designated driver, ride share, taxi or transit.
- Never start too early. Only consume alcohol and drugs within walking distance of your party.
- Plan for plenty of rest and recovery before you drive. Avoid planning late-night or early morning driving.
“Drivers can expect increased impaired driving enforcement from both marked and unmarked police vehicles, and they may be subject to Mandatory Alcohol Screening,” says Inspector Tallboy.
“People who choose to be impaired by alcohol or drugs will face serious consequences.”
Since 2018, the federal law of Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS) has been in effect, which means that an officer can demand a breath sample from any driver, any time, without forming a suspicion that the driver may have consumed alcohol.
Police say there will be extra attention on impaired driving on long weekends and special events where people are likely to be consuming alcohol and drugs
Motorists can expect extra check stops and individual traffic stops.
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