As the summer continues, SGI is taking the time this month to remind people about the risks of impaired driving, even when they're not in a car this summer season. Their August Traffic Safety Spotlight looks at some of the other vehicles that impaired driving can impact and ways to make sure you stay safe over the summer.
Manager of Media Relations Heather Hubic says that impaired driving can affect people regardless of what they're moving.
"It doesn't matter what kind of vehicle you're operating; it's never OK to drive impaired. So always make sure you're safe and sober when you're operating a recreational vehicle, too, whether it be a boat, an ATV, an E-scooter, or a golf cart. We know that impaired driving is 100 per cent preventable, and when you're using those recreational vehicles, it's always important to make sure that you are driving safely and driving sober."
Police can also hand out those fines for impaired driving, no matter the vehicle, says Hubic.
"The penalties for impaired driving apply regardless of the type of motorized vehicle that you're driving, whether it be a golf cart or an ATV. So those consequences may include fines, the loss of your license, and even jail time. The most serious consequence, of course, is someone being seriously injured or killed in an impaired driving-related collision. So, at the end of the day, we just all need to remember that it's never OK to drive impaired."
If someone does end up impaired celebrating the summer, Hubic says there are multiple ways to get home safely.
"There are lots of great options, and that's sort we're trying to remind people, you can go out and have a good time, but you just need to make sure you find that safe ride home. You can call a sober friend or family member to come pick you up. You can select a designated driver for your group, or you can volunteer to be one. You can take a cab or a designated driving service. Or you can stay the night, so you have those options. Just make sure you're using them so you can get home safe."
SGI says people can follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more safety tips and traffic advice.