The Lethbridge Police Service is conducting its Christmas Check Stop campaign throughout December. (File photo: LNN)

By Justin Goulet

Lethbridge Police targeting impaired drivers during Christmas Check Stop program

Dec 7, 2022 | 11:10 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Members of the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) will be out this holiday season, conducting additional check stops throughout the month of December.

The LPS says the primary goal of the Christmas Check Stop program is to remove impaired drivers from the road. Police will also be checking for valid documentation including driver’s licenses, vehicle registration and insurance, as well as equipment, liquor and other violations.

The LPS noted that drivers with a blood alcohol concentration over .08 face criminal charges.

Under the provincial Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) program, if an officers has reasonable grounds to believe a motorist is impaired by drugs or alcohol or over the legal limit, an IRS Fail will be issued. This will result in a 15-month license suspension (with the option of getting an ignition interlock device after the first three months). An IRS Fail will also lead to a 30-day vehicle seizure, a $1,000 fine and mandatory completion of the Planning Ahead course.

With any subsequent offences, the penalties increase.

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The LPS said in total, the financial impact of a first FAIR offence, which includes towing, vehicle storage, the fine, potentially getting an interlock device, and enrolling in the Planning Ahead course, is approximately $4,000 to $5,000.

IRS WARN

Police noted that drivers with a blood alcohol concentration of .05 or over are subject to an IRS Warn. This will result in an immediate three-day license suspension and seizure of the driver’s vehicle, along with a $300 fine. Penalties will increase with repeated offences.

There is a zero-tolerance policy for motorists with a Graduated Driving License (GDL). An offence will result in an immediate 30-day license suspension, a seven-day vehicle seizure, and a $200 fine.

Police can also issue an immediate 24-hour suspension for drivers that are suspected of being impaired by drugs, alcohol, or a physical or medical condition that affects their ability to safely operate a vehicle.

Police have the authority to ask for a breath test from any driver who is lawfully stopped in Alberta. If a driver refuses, whether they are impaired or not, they can be criminally charged.

The LPS asks drivers to plan ahead during the holidays.

Police advise party-goers to designate a sober driver who does not drink any alcohol, call a taxi or use a service like Operation Red Nose to get home safely.

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