Many people are excited for this long weekend, however, the RCMP have different feelings.
On record, the RCMP say the long weekend is very busy with impaired driving offences.
Last year, the RCMP charged 18 drivers with impaired driving, and 13 of those were given roadside suspensions.
In 2015, there were 21 drivers charged, and they issued six seven day suspensions during the same time period.
In 2014, 14 drivers were charged with impaired driving, and four seven day suspensions were issued.
Staff Sergeant Eric Larose says the officers have heard all the excuses, and none of them hold water.
He goes on to say “think a taxi is too expensive? Imagine having to pay $1500 in fines and the cost of losing your driver’s licence for a year – and that’s just for a first offense.”
As for not wanting to come back for your car in the morning? Larose says “think about what it would mean for your family and friends if you were fined or jailed.”
When it comes to the excuse of “well it’s not that far,” Larose reports studies have shown most vehicle crashes happen close to home.”
And finally, Larose says some people believe they’re okay to drive because they’ve “just had a couple.”
He asks people to imagine that situation, “how you’d feel if you seriously hurt or killed another person because you “thought” you were okay. No matter how you look at it, it’s not worth the risk.”
Larose adds if you do suspect someone is driving under the influence, you should call 911 when it is safe and give them a description of the vehicle, the licence plate and the direction of travel
