RCMP will be conducting its annual festive season checkstop campaign on Manitoba roads and highways all month.
“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 in a news release. “You can avoid a criminal charge and save lives by arranging for a designated driver or calling a cab, rideshare or Operation Red Nose to get you home.”
Motorists will be seeing an increased police presence on the roads beginning Dec. 6 through the month of December. When RCMP stops a vehicle, a mandatory screening for alcohol and drugs will occur. Officers also use screening devices to identify the presence of alcohol and drugs.
Those arrested for impaired driving will face a range of consequences, including criminal charges, large fines, having their licence suspended and their vehicle impounded.
Last year, there were 21 fatal collisions in RCMP jurisdiction where drug or alcohol impairment was suspected as a contributing factor and 43 collisions that resulted in serious injuries.
RCMP is reminding motorists to help keep others safe and not get behind the wheel if you are under the influence.
