Since RCMP on the Sunshine Coast kicked off the Holiday Counter Attack campaign on Dec. 5, a total of 19 impaired drivers have been taken off the road.
That number includes drivers impaired by alcohol (16) and by drugs (3).
The majority of the drivers impaired by alcohol blew “fail” readings on roadside screening devices, received 90-day driving prohibitions, and had their vehicles impounded for 30 days.
The number of impaired drivers stopped by police is up slightly from last year, according to RCMP.
“Some people are still not getting the message about how dangerous it is to drive while impaired,” said media liaison Const. Harrison Mohr. “On the Sunshine Coast in 2014, there were numerous serious and unnecessary collisions caused by drivers who chose to get behind the wheel after drinking. In 2015, police will continue to specifically target impaired drivers, both through education and enforcement, and drivers can expect to see road checks on any day of the week.”
The good news is that New Year’s Eve was a different story altogether.
“Despite setting up numerous road checks in varying locations, no impaired drivers were observed that night,” added Mohr. “We spoke with a lot of designated drivers on New Year’s, and we’re happy to report that the night was a success.
“The RCMP would like to thank everyone on the Coast who enjoyed a fun and responsible New Year’s Eve, and we look forward to serving our communities in 2015. Let’s stay safe this year — together.”
