‘Tis the season for safe driving, and it appears so far Drumheller residents are getting the message.
The Drumheller RCMP has stepped up its enforcement and has been staging a number of check stops leading up to and through the holiday season. Staff Sergeant Art Hopkins said awareness of the check stops is getting out.
“Last Friday night and Saturday they were really busy,” said Hopkins. “People are talking about it.”
On top of the weekend check stops, Drumheller RCMP are also implementing random check stops.
“If you are caught driving under the influence, there are many things that could happen, ranging from driving prohibition to vehicle seizures,” said Hopkins. “That is not including what could happen if someone gets hurt as a result of your actions while under the influence. The financial implications to you and your family are huge should you get caught driving or are involved in a collision where someone gets hurt.”
Hopkins said so far, during their check stops, no drivers have been charged with impaired driving.
“There have been some minor drug possession charges and some open liquor charges, but there haven’t been any impaired drivers or 24 suspensions,” said Hopkins. “We have had a couple no insurance and other violations.”
He said the random check stops will continue through to the new year.
Bottom line for Hopkins: if you are planning on drinking, plan on a ride home.
