Expect police to be out on the roads looking for motorists who’ve been drinking and driving or have recently consumed cannabis this holiday season.
The RCMP in B.C. launched their Winter Counterattack campaign this week. Drivers can expect to see road checks every weekend on any road or highway in and around Nanaimo until Dec. 31.
On average, 68 people lose their lives because of impaired driving each year in B.C., according to an RCMP press release.
“The road check may delay you a few minutes, but please have some patience as our officers are there to protect you,” said Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, in the release. “Don’t make that conscious decision to drive while impaired. It’s just not worth it and may cost you not only your licence, but your life or someone else’s.”
For everyone who plans to be consuming alcohol or other substances that can cause impairment at holiday season celebrations, police recommend leaving their vehicles at home or arrange for a designated driver – be it a friend or commercial designated driver service to bring everyone and their car home safely. Police also suggest car pooling with a designated driver, taking a taxi or using public transit.
Police also ask, if someone is suspected of driving while impaired or an impaired driver is spotted on the road, to pull over to the side of the road, call 911 immediately, and provide the licence plate of the vehicle, vehicle description and direction of travel.
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