With the holiday season right around the corner, now is a reminder to never get behind the wheel if you're impared.
The Manitoba RCMP has begun its checkstop campaign on Manitoban roads and highways.
“If enjoying your holiday season involves consuming drugs or alcohol, then we strongly encourage you to plan ahead so you have a safe ride home,” said Insp. Robert Wuskynyk, head of Manitoba RCMP Traffic Services. “You can avoid a criminal charge and save lives by arranging for a designated driver or calling a cab, or a rideshare to get you home.”
Within the city of Dauphin, don't forget about the RIDE program, which operates every weekend this month, and on New Year's Eve.
You can expect an increased police presence on roads and highways this month. If you are stopped, officers will conduct mandatory screenings for alcohol and drugs.
If you are arrested for impaired driving, you can face a range of consequences. This includes criminal charges, large fines, your license could be suspended, and vehicle impounded.
There were 21 fatal collisions in RCMP jurisdiction last year where drug and or alcohol impairment were suspected as a contributing factor. 43 collisions resulted in serious injuries.
The message is simple from the Manitoba RCMP: don't get behind the wheel impaired.
