Every December, Albertans take to the roads to visit family and attend holiday celebrations. With more social events and busier roads this time of year, it’s essential to think ahead, especially when alcohol or cannabis may be involved. The consequences of not having a plan can last a lifetime or take one away.
Over the last five years, more than 3,000 Alberta drivers have been convicted of impaired driving each year. In 2023, one in 14 drivers involved in a fatal collision were legally impaired. These tragedies are preventable, and they often begin with the same reckless mistake: not having a plan to get home safely.
If you drive impaired, you’re putting yourself and others at risk. Alberta has some of the strongest impaired driving laws in Canada, holding impaired drivers accountable with immediate and severe penalties. 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.
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.
Quick facts
- Impairment can be caused by alcohol, drugs, fatigue, distraction or a combination of these factors.
- Cannabis use is also a significant contributor to impaired driving.
- Research shows that collision risk begins at very low levels of cannabis use.
- Combining alcohol and cannabis exponentially increases the risk of impairment.
- In 2023, 29 people died and another 214 suffered major injuries in collisions because of impaired driving from alcohol or drugs.