Information Bulletin - Impaired Driving Dec-07

December 6, 2007

Impaired driving is not an option on Alberta’s roads

Edmonton… Getting charged for driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious crime with serious consequences. But recent government statistics show some Albertans think they aren’t impaired after a few drinks or that they won't get caught because they’re good drivers.

During 2006, there were more than 142,500 collisions on Alberta’s roads that killed 453 people. Of all drivers involved in fatal collisions during 2006, 22 per cent had consumed alcohol before the crash. Of all drivers involved in injury collisions, nearly five per cent had consumed alcohol before the crash. The majority of drinking drivers were young males.

The consequences of impaired driving
Even if you are not involved in a collision, when you are caught drinking and driving you face serious consequences:

• the humiliation of being arrested;

• a criminal record;

• heavy fines;

• time in jail;

• loss of driver’s licence; and

• an automatic minimum three-month Alberta Administrative Licence Suspension.

As serious as these consequences are, they are small compared to the lifelong remorse you will live with when your drinking and driving results in someone else’s death or serious injury.

The province wants Albertans to enjoy the upcoming festive season by making the smart choice – don’t drink and drive.

Improving traffic safety is part of Premier Ed Stelmach’s plan to secure Alberta’s future by building communities, greening our growth and creating opportunity.

For more information about traffic safety, contact the Office of Traffic Safety at (780) 422-8839 or visit http://www.saferoads.com/.

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To call toll-free within Alberta dial 310-0000.