The ICBC and police campaign CounterAttack is kicking off this weekend with check stops to be set up across the province. The campaign is designed to stop impaired drivers, and ensure everyone gets home safe this holiday season.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/ICBC
December 01, 2021 - 2:51 PM
B.C. drivers are urged to plan ahead for a safe ride home after attending gatherings this holiday season, with the annual December CounterAttack campaign.
The ICBC and police program kicks off this weekend, with police looking for impaired drivers at check stops set up across the province throughout the month, an ICBC media release said.
As British Columbians can attend holiday gatherings this year, the police are urging drivers to make safe decisions and not drive under the influence.
“This year, we're all looking forward to holiday gatherings and special festivities. But remember to celebrate safely as police will be out in full force looking for drivers who may be impaired by alcohol and/or drugs. B.C.'s annual CounterAttack impaired driving campaign is designed to help keep our roads safe, and families and friends together,” chair of the B.C. association of chiefs of police traffic safety committee Chief Const. Neil Dubord said.
“Impaired driving by alcohol or drugs is a preventable, dangerous decision that too often results in serious injuries or death. We encourage you to embrace the joy of the season while making safe and responsible choices.”
Impaired driving is one of the top three contributing factors for fatal crashes in B.C., injuring 1,700 people every year, and more than half crashes occurring on the weekends, ICBC said.
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“While it's exciting that more of us are able to gather for celebrations and events this year, it's important that we all do our part to prevent crashes and save lives. When you drink and drive, you not only risk your life but those of others on the road,” ICBC vice-president of public affairs and driver licensing Lindsay Matthews said.
“If your festivities include alcohol, please be responsible and plan ahead for a safe ride home – arrange a designated driver, call a taxi or take transit.”
ICBC has led impaired driving education campaigns and funded CounterAttack enhanced police enforcement for over 40 years.
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