The Quebec police forces, working in conjunction with partners, have announced heightened measures as part of the provincial operation focusing on combating impaired driving during the upcoming holiday season. From December 4 to January 4, there will be increased interventions aimed at targeting drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs across the region.
These efforts will involve screenings conducted during roadside checks, as well as a dedicated national road safety day on December 5, during which winter tires will also be inspected throughout Quebec, according to a statement released by the Quebec police.
Meanwhile, the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) continues its holiday awareness campaign initiated on November 10, which will run until December 21. The importance of refraining from driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs is emphasized, as statistics show that alcohol was a factor in 28% of fatal collisions and 15% of collisions resulting in serious injuries between 2019 and 2023.
According to the authorities, it is crucial to dispel any misconceptions about the ability to quickly regain sobriety after consuming alcohol or drugs. Time is the only effective way to eliminate the effects of such substances, and attempting to estimate one’s blood alcohol level before driving is highly risky and should be avoided. The impact of even a single drink should not be underestimated, and it is emphasized that operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is never acceptable.
