Alberta RCMP enforcing safe driving this holiday weekend

Last year, there were four fatalities and 177 injuries as a result of 1,560 motor vehicle collision in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions over the Thanksgiving weekend.

RCMP are reminding motorists of the following before taking the roads:

· Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs your judgement and reaction time. Impaired driving is criminal and dangerous.

· Getting behind the wheel fatigued limits your ability to pay attention on the road. Motorists should not drive while drowsy,

· Texting, or handling other devices on one’s dashboard while driving forces a driver to take their eyes off the road. Distracted driving increases the risk of a roadway collision.

· Motorists should ensure all vehicle occupants are properly restrained using seat belts or child car seats. “Buckling up keeps occupants safe and prevents injury”, RCMP stated.

The theme for Operation Impact this year is ‘Safety Doesn’t Happen by Accident’. It focuses on the idea that we all have a role to play in supporting traffic safety throughout our communities.

“Impaired driving is always a concern when there is an increase of traffic on our roadways,” said Supt. Rick Gardner with the Alberta Traffic Sheriffs.

“We want Albertans to remember that it is never acceptable to drive impaired – holiday long weekends are no exception.”

Supt. Gary Graham added, “this Thanksgiving season, the RCMP is grateful for Albertans who are taking precautions to keep our streets and highways safe.”

Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving, or a possible impaired driver is asked to call 911.

by Justin Goulet

Alberta RCMP enforcing safe driving this holiday weekend

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