Police are warning drivers to expect a stronger law enforcement presence on roads across the territory in the coming days.
The increased activity is part of National Impaired Driving Prevention Week, an initiative led by Public Safety Canada.
In a statement released Friday, police said: “During this initiative, which runs from March 15 to March 23, the public can expect to see an increased police presence on roadways as officers prioritize efforts to combat impaired driving in all forms.”
According to statistics collected by the RCMP, collisions involving alcohol or drugs remain the leading criminal cause of death and injury in Canada.
“Alcohol, drugs, cannabis, over-the-counter and/or prescription medications can all impact your judgement, coordination, and reaction time behind the wheel. According to the most recent statistics from MADD Canada, approximately 1 in 4 fatal collisions involves an alcohol-impaired driver.”
Police say the campaign will also focus on educating the public about the risks and legal consequences of driving under the influence. Officers warned that impairment caused by alcohol, drugs, fatigue or distraction is dangerous and has cost the lives and health of thousands of people across the country.
“Fatigue or distraction can have very similar effects on a person’s ability to operate a vehicle. Distraction alone is believed to be a factor in approximately four million collisions in North America each year,” officials add.
Police noted that impaired driving laws also apply to off-road vehicles such as ATVs, snowmobiles and other motorized transportation.
Officers advised the public to be prepared to provide a breath sample during any traffic stop as part of Canada’s mandatory alcohol screening laws.
