Local police launch annual Holiday CounterAttack Roadside Check campaign
By Lone Sheep Publishing
The Nelson Police Department and local RCMP are gearing up to ensure everyone’s safety on the roads during this holiday season.
During the month of December, police will conduct Holiday Counterattack Roadside Check to promote responsible and safe driving, with the mission to keep streets safe and prevent impaired driving.
“The Nelson Police Department recognizes the importance of educating (public) about the consequences for impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs fatigue or distraction, which destroys the lives and health of thousands of Canadians,” Nelson Police said.
As nearly one quarter (21%) of all car crash fatalities in B.C. involve impaired driving — provincial statistics confirm on average, 23 people are killed and 344 injured in 563 impaired driving related crashes in the Southern Interior every year — police are urging drivers planning to celebrate the holidays with a few drinks to ensure to have a designated driver, use public transportation or arrange a ride home.
The Nelson Police Department recognizes the importance of educating (public) about the consequences for impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs fatigue or distraction, which destroys the lives and health of thousands of Canadians.
Nelson Police would also like to advise the public that impaired driving rules do not just apply to cars, it also applies to motorcycles, boats, ATV’s snowmobiles and other forms of motorized transportation.
“Everyone has a role to play to ensure safety on Canada’s roads, trails and waterways.”
BC has some of the toughest drinking and driving laws in Canada.
Anyone caught driving impaired can face these penalties.
- Driving suspensions from 24 hours to 90 days
- Vehicle impoundment
- Fines, from $600 to $4000
- Jail Time
- Mandatory rehabilitation
- Installation of ignition interlock in their vehicle
The public is also urged if anyone witnesses an impaired driver on the roads to call 911.
