Summer can be a deadly time on B.C. roads, with 46 per cent of impaired driving-related deaths occurring between June and September. That’s why ICBC and police are stepping up awareness activities and CounterAttack roadchecks across the province starting this past long weekend.

With increased traffic and vacation plans that could involve alcohol, ICBC is urging everyone to plan ahead to travel safely. Police will be looking for impaired drivers at CounterAttack roadchecks throughout B.C.

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. With so many options to get home safely, there’s no excuse to drive impaired – arrange a designated driver, call a taxi or take transit.

ICBC supports CounterAttack with funding for enhanced police enforcement and two education campaigns each year. Learn interesting facts about impaired driving on icbc.com.

Quotes:

“We have seen significant reductions in alcohol-related fatalities on our roads, however, there are still some people who don’t take this issue seriously,” said Mike Morris, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

“CounterAttack is a vital part of our provincial enforcement strategy and British Columbians can expect enforcement to continue until every driver hears the message loud and clear – impaired driving will not be tolerated in B.C. We will continue to work together to change attitudes to keep B.C. roads safe for everyone.”

“Impaired driving is the third-leading cause of road deaths during the summer, after speeding and distracted driving,” said Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “So it’s important to have a plan for a safe ride to and from your summer activities.”

“Driving while impaired or riding with someone who is impaired is never worth the risk,” said Chief Constable Neil Dubord, Chair of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police Traffic Safety Committee. “Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or arrest are significant and can last a lifetime. Police across B.C. will be looking for impaired drivers at CounterAttack roadchecks this summer.”

“Whether you’re on a busy highway filled with summer road trip travellers or just driving your regular route across town to a game at your local ball diamond, it’s important to stay focused and alert,” said Lindsay Matthews, ICBC’s director responsible for road safety. “And if your activities involve alcohol, make sure you have a designated driver or a plan to take transit or a taxi.”

Regional statistics:

  • In the Lower Mainland, an average of 21 people are killed in impaired-related crashes every year.
  • On Vancouver Island, an average of 11 people are killed in impaired-related crashes every year.
  • In the Southern Interior, an average of 25 people are killed in impaired-related crashes every year.
  • In North Central B.C., an average of 21 people are killed in impaired-related crashes every year.

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