Impaired driving remains a significant concern in Saskatchewan, where an average of 32 people lose their lives each year due to collisions involving impaired drivers. To help prevent these tragedies, SGI is encouraging parents and guardians to speak with their children about the dangers of driving under the influence.
“Talking about driving sober doesn’t need to be super-serious or boring,” said JP Cullen, executive vice-president and chief operating officer of the Saskatchewan Auto Fund. “It might be a casual conversation on the way to the store, a quick chat when your kids are heading out the door, or a discussion while you’re playing a game together. There’s no wrong time to have the conversation but talking to your kids about the danger of impaired driving could save a life.”
Despite legal restrictions on alcohol and drug use for those under 19, young drivers remain overrepresented in impaired driving-related collisions. In 2023, drivers under the age of 21 accounted for 14 per cent of impaired driving crashes in Saskatchewan, despite making up only eight per cent of the province’s drivers.
There are several ways parents can talk to their children about impaired driving:
- Discuss the consequences: Impaired driving can lead to serious injury or death. Saskatchewan has a zero-tolerance policy for drug or alcohol impairment for new drivers.
- Talk about options: Encourage alternatives such as staying sober, using a designated driver, or arranging a safe ride home. Even if they don’t need this advice now, it may help them in the future.
- Help them build an exit plan: Reinforce that it’s okay to refuse a ride from an impaired driver. Encourage them to use a rideshare service or call a trusted family member for help.
- Set a good example: Actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate responsible choices by using rideshare services or relying on a sober driver when necessary. Leading by example can help instill safe habits in young drivers.
By maintaining open discussions and fostering responsible decision-making, parents and guardians can play a crucial role in keeping their children safe from the risks of impaired driving.