RCMP is urging residents to celebrate Canada Day responsibly and avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
With long weekends typically seeing an increase in impaired driving incidents, police are reminding the public that impaired driving is both dangerous and criminal.
“Whether celebrating the holiday at the lake or on a patio, always remember you should never operate a motorized vehicle, including boats and OHVs, if you have been drinking or using cannabis,” said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull of Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “Everyone should be able to make it home safely this Canada Day.”
According to MADD Canada, one in five drivers involved in fatal collisions in Alberta had been drinking prior to the crash—compared to one in 20 in injury collisions. Last Canada Day long weekend, seven people were killed in road-related incidents in Alberta RCMP jurisdiction, and 101 impaired drivers were taken off the roads.
Police are reminding motorists of several key points:
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Impaired driving significantly reduces judgment and reaction time.
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Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS) is used by officers to detect and deter impaired drivers; refusal to comply can result in criminal charges.
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Drivers with a Graduated Driver’s Licence must follow zero-tolerance laws for alcohol and drug use.
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Impaired driving laws apply to all motorized vehicles, including boats and off-highway vehicles (OHVs).
The RCMP encourages everyone to plan ahead by arranging a safe way home, such as using a taxi, rideshare service, designated driver or staying overnight.
If you suspect someone is driving impaired, you’re asked to call 911 immediately.
For more traffic safety tips, follow the Alberta RCMP on social media at @RCMPinAlberta on Facebook and @RCMPAlberta on X (formerly Twitter).