Battlefords RCMP, SGI: Don’t drive impaired over holidays

Police encountered a few incidents of impaired drivers already since the holiday season started, however a final tally isn’t available yet, he said. “We would like to remind people if they do plan on drinking or participating in legal marijuana (use) to have a ride with a sober driver, or to use a taxi.”

Dubois also noted just as alcohol can alter a driver’s response time at the wheel, so can cannabis use. Cannabis can cause a driver to have a delayed reaction time and to lose focus while on the road.

“That too can be an impaired charge,” Dubois added. “The last thing we want is for people to get into car accidents and have themselves or anybody else injured.”

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) spokesperson Tyler McMurchy shared Dubois’ sentiments of the potential for collisions.

Stats show last year from Dec. 1, 2017 to Jan. 3, 2018, three people were killed while 18 individuals were injured as a result of impaired driving collisions in Saskatchewan.

He said there is zero tolerance for drug-impaired driving in Saskatchewan.

The penalties and consequences for drivers who are driving impaired by drugs are “just as tough for them as they are for alcohol impaired drivers,” he added of the deterrent.

McMurchy is also reminding drivers to watch their speeds during the busy holiday season.

“Speeding is one of the leading causes of death and injury on Saskatchewan roads,” he said. “It’s one of the things that police are always focused on. It’s important to know that whatever you are heading to will be there when you get there.”

angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW

by Angela Brown

Battlefords RCMP, SGI: Don’t drive impaired over holidays

What's Trending