RICHMOND RCMP, in collaboration with ICBC, is launching its 2024 summer campaign to combat impaired driving. This initiative emphasizes the importance of responsible driving during the summer months, focusing on reducing incidents of impaired driving to safeguard all road users.
As summer activities increase, Richmond RCMP reminds the public of the critical risks associated with impaired driving. When you drink and drive, you not only risk your life but those of others on the road. The campaign, running throughout July and August, coincides with key summer holidays and events when the risk of impaired driving incidents is typically higher.
In partnership with ICBC, Richmond RCMP say they are dedicated to reminding drivers of their responsibility to maintain safety on the roads. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgement and reaction times, increasing the risk of collisions. If your summer activities involve alcohol, you need to plan ahead to get home safely. If you’ve been drinking, don’t drive. Use a designated driver, call a taxi or rideshare, or take transit.
Impaired driving remains a significant concern in British Columbia. It is one of the top three contributing factors in fatal crashes in the province. Young drivers (aged 16 to 25) represent 12% of all drivers in B.C., yet they account for 22% of all impaired drivers in crashes. Nearly a quarter (21%) of all car crash fatalities in BC involve impaired driving, with men accounting for 69% of impaired drivers implicated in collisions.
On average, 61 people are killed and 1,404 injured in impaired driving-related crashes in B.C. every year. This includes 12 killed and 600 injured annually in the Lower Mainland, according to ICBC.
Sgt. Eric Baskette of Richmond RCMP Road Safety Units says: “Driving under the influence is a choice that can lead to tragic consequences. We urge everyone to make responsible decisions this summer. If you plan to drink, plan ahead to get home safely. Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.”
