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By rdnewsNOW staff

preventable mistakes

Government of Alberta urges safe and responsible driving during the holidays

Dec 19, 2025 | 2:30 PM

The Government of Alberta is pleading with Albertans to be responsible drivers this holiday season.

Be it alcohol, cannabis or something else, they note the consequences of making the wrong decision, or not having a plan, can last a lifetime or take one away.

They also note that over the last five years, more than 3,000 Albertans have been convicted of impaired driving.

In 2023, one in every 14 drivers involved in a fatal collision was legally impaired.

According to the province, anyone caught driving impaired could face large fines, lose their vehicle for up to 30 days, and be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle for at least one year. Additionally, law enforcement can proceed with charges under the Criminal Code of Canada that can result in further penalties imposed by the courts, including jail time.

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Tips to prevent impaired driving:

• Arrange a designated driver who will stay sober for the entire evening.
• If you have consumed alcohol or cannabis, call a taxi or rideshare service.
• Consider staying overnight instead of getting behind the wheel.
• Make the choice to never drive impaired. Plan ahead before you head out.

Tips for responsible hosting:

• Ask guests to leave their keys at the door and return them only if it is safe for them to drive.
• Instead of having guests help themselves to alcohol, serve drinks yourself or have a bartender.
• Provide non-alcoholic drink options throughout the evening.

In 2023, 29 people died and another 214 suffered major injuries in collisions because of impaired driving from alcohol or drugs.