The Alberta RCMP is marking another year of National Impaired Driving Prevention Week from March 16 to 22.
The campaign is a reminder to Albertans of the consequences of impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs, fatigue, or distraction, all of which could have devastating consequences.
Impaired driving, whether by drugs or alcohol, continues to kill or injure more Canadians than any other crime, according to the RCMP.
Alcohol, drugs, cannabis, over-the-counter and/or prescription medications can impact your judgment, coordination, and reaction time behind the wheel (Public Safety Canada).
The Alberta RCMP advises planning ahead and to ensure you have a designated driver or a safe ride home.
"Impaired driving is not just a legal issue—it’s a matter of life and death," stated a press release.
Fatigued driving can also present many dangers. At 100 km/h, a driver can travel 150 metres in only six seconds. This means that a driver's eyes need to be closed for only three or four seconds before they could face disastrous consequences (Public Safety Canada).
Distracted driving can put motorists, passengers, and other road users at risk. Texting, switching songs, adjusting a GPS, may seem harmless, but that second where your attention is diverted could result in a motor vehicle collision.
“Impaired driving doesn’t just apply to cars – it also applies to motorcycles, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, and other off-highway vehicles (OHV),” said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic.
“No matter what, you should never operate a motorized vehicle while impaired, and you should do everything in your power to be alert behind the wheel. If you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 911.”
