As a result of COVID-19, MADD check stops have been grounded to a halt but that does not appear to be slowing enforcement. (File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Impaired driving

Impaired driving stats on the rise

Jun 24, 2020 | 5:23 PM

Despite all the public awareness campaigns, the Prince Albert Police Service continue to see a number of impaired drivers on the road.

According to May’s statistics report, there have been 50 incidents related to impaired driving in the city this year. This represents a 28 per cent increase when compared to the same time period in 2019. Police spokesperson Charlene Tebbutt told paNOW the numbers are concerning.

“That’s always something that police are going to advocate against, and nobody wants to have dangerous driving on the road,” she said.

For the month of May alone, the police service reported 12 incidents, an increase from five in May, 2019. Tebbutt explained there could be a number of reasons for the increase in numbers.

“Certainly members are out there enforcing the traffic laws and the rules of the road everyday, but there were also some calls from the public that helped lead to some charges through the [Report Impaired Drivers] program,” she said.

On the ice

Weekend rink report: Mintos split in Southern Sask., Northern Bears swept by Regina

11h ago

Russia-Ukraine War

In a first, President Biden gives green light for Ukraine's use of U.S.-supplied long-range missiles in Russia

16h ago

Podium finish

Carlton boys claim third at 5A provincials, first provincial medal in volleyball since 2014

18h ago

The city’s numbers appear to fall in line with what’s happening across the province.

SGI has reported for the month of May, police across the province reported 411 impaired driving offences, including 339 Criminal Code charges.

Impaired driving remains the leading cause of death on Saskatchewan’s roads, with 21 people killed last year.

The most recent hike in penalties took effect in Sept. 2018. The provincial legislation upgrade included zero tolerance for drug impaired driving and stronger penalties for impaired drivers transporting children.

Federally, legislation changes three months later gave police the authority to demand a roadside breath sample from any driver who had been lawfully stopped.

–

nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell