(Impaired driving image via Shutterstock)
Additional police officers are being put out on Manitoba roads this long weekend to catch impaired drivers.
The 21st annual RoadWatch program will run until November to supplement existing police resources.
“RoadWatch’s high-visibility roadside check stops, when combined with public awareness and education, send a strong message that illegal and high-risk driving behaviours such as impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and non-use of seatbelts will not be tolerated,” said Satvir Jatana, vice-president responsible for communications with Manitoba Public Insurance.
Five police agencies will participate in the program: RCMP and police in Winnipeg, Brandon, Morden, and Winkler.
Over the last 10 years, more than 2,200 impaired drivers haven’t been taken off the streets, according to MPI.
Who is driving impaired?
- Young males make up the majority of those involved in impaired collisions.
- Males account for nearly three-quarters of impaired drivers involved in crashes.
- Drivers under age 35 (all genders) account for nearly two-thirds of impaired drivers involved in crashes.
- Drivers under the age of 35 have a rate of involvement in impaired driving crashes that is nearly four times that of drivers age 35 and older.
Source: Manitoba Public Insurance
