The Christmas season is a time to show our friends and families just how much we value and cherish them.
One of the most meaningful things we can do for our loved ones is to help keep them safe by encouraging responsible drinking and taking a stand against drinking and driving. Last year alone, impaired drivers killed 96 people and injured 1,384 others on Alberta's roads. It's a sad statistic and one we can all help to change.
The Government of Alberta recently passed legislation that cracks down on repeat impaired drivers and those who blow over the criminal legal limit of .08. When the new legislation comes into force later next year, drivers over .08 will have licences suspended until their criminal charges are resolved and ignition interlocks will be mandatory for even first offenders.
The new legislation will also address drivers between .05 and .08 in a more practical and meaningful way. Currently, drivers at this level face 24-hour suspensions. A driver could get multiple suspensions with no escalation in penalties, no repercussions and no education. Under the new law, these drivers will face lengthening suspensions for repeat offences. They will also be required to take mandatory education programs.
Alberta's new impaired driving laws are based on successful examples from jurisdictions across Canada and around the world. It's an approach that is proven to work. Changing the law is only part of the solution. It's up to all Albertans to change the way we think about drinking and driving.
One thing Alberta's legislation has already accomplished is putting the topic of impaired driving front and centre during the holidays. Many Albertans were unaware that police already issue suspensions to drivers at .05. Hopefully, even this increased awareness will make a difference.
This Christmas, please choose a designated driver, call a taxi, call a friend, walk, stay over or take public transit if you plan to drink. Encourage your friends and family to do the same. There's always a better option. Let's make sure our festivities are memorable for all the right reasons.
More information about Alberta's new impaired driving laws and what they might mean for you is available on-line at alberta.ca.
Verlyn Olson QC, Minister of Justice and Attorney General
Jonathan Denis QC, Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security
Ray Danyluk, Minister of Transportation
