The provincial government, ICBC, and police have launched the annual winter CounterAttack campaign, which sets up roadside checks throughout the province all December long to screen for alcohol and drug affected drivers.
Anybody caught drinking and driving will be subject to an Immediate Roadside Prohibition, including vehicle impoundments and penalties costing at least $2,400.
While much progress has been made in recent years, impaired driving is still one of the top 3 contributing factors for fatal crashes in British Columbia, costing 66 people their lives each year.
The B.C. Liberal government and ICBC are helping to prevent impaired driving this holiday season with an education campaign, funding for CounterAttack roadside checks and get-home-safe promotion with businesses, sports facilities and community groups.
Police CounterAttack overtime funding has also doubled this year to make sure everyone gets the message and that alcohol-affected drivers are taken off B.C. roads.
Crashes due to drinking and driving are preventable.
If your holiday festivities involve alcohol, make a plan before heading out. Arrange for a designated driver or use other options to get home safely – call a family member or a friend.
