THE authorities are warning that although COVID-19 has changed many things, it hasn’t changed the law – if you plan to drink, don’t drive. Police will be setting up CounterAttack roadchecks across the province while taking necessary pandemic-related safety precautions to get impaired drivers off the roads.
With many restaurants and pubs reopening and Canada Day this week, ICBC, police and the B.C. government are urging drivers to plan ahead for a safe ride home if your activities involve alcohol.
Every year, on average, 68 people are killed as a result of impaired driving, with 40 per cent of those deaths happening in the summer.
During the pandemic, alcohol consumption increased as more people were drinking at home. To encourage physical distancing and outdoor socialization, some municipalities are allowing alcohol consumption in parks and at beaches. Whether you’re drinking at home or out with friends, be responsible and don’t drive, urge the authorities.
While much progress has been made, impaired driving remains the leading cause of criminal death in Canada and in the top three contributing factors for fatal crashes in B.C.
If you’re hosting a celebration this summer (remember to keep it within Provincial Health Officer guidelines) and plan to serve alcohol, get an ICBC special event permit kit for free on icbc.com. It’s also available when you apply for an event liquor permit at BCLiquorStores.com. The kits include items to encourage designated drivers to stay sober and for guests to find a safe ride home.
ICBC supports two impaired driving education campaigns every year. Learn more facts and tips in ICBC’s infographic.
Regional statistics:
- On average, 16 people are killed and 830 injured in 1,500 impaired driving related crashes in the Lower Mainland every year.
- On average, 11 people are killed and 320 injured in 600 impaired driving related crashes on Vancouver Island every year.
- On average, 22 people are killed and 390 injured in 660 impaired driving related crashes in the Southern Interior every year.
- On average, 20 people are killed and 190 injured in 310 impaired driving related crashes in North Central B.C. every year.
Canada Day statistics:
- Each year one person is killed and 190 injured in 710 crashes in B.C.
- Each year 130 people are injured in 430 crashes in the Lower Mainland.
- Each year 24 people are injured in 110 crashes on Vancouver Island.
- Each year 24 people are injured in 120 crashes in the Southern Interior.
- Each year seven people are injured in 42 crashes in the North Central region.