TRAFFIC SAFETY TIP

If you think it is okay to drink and drive, you’re wrong. More than a third of fatal crashes on Manitoba roads involve drivers who have been drinking. That’s why Manitoba’s tough sanctions for drunk drivers are amongst the toughest in Canada.

If you drive a motor vehicle and have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) between .05 and .08 you will face a variety of consequences that may include:

·        An immediate tiered licence suspension of 24 hours to 60 days, depending on how many previous suspensions you have had over a 10 year period;

·        Drivers who have received 2 or more suspensions within a 10 year period are required to complete an impaired driver’s assessment at a cost of $625;

·        Drivers who receive a tiered suspension may also be subject to Driver Improvement and Control Intervention, which could range from a warning letter to a Show Cause Hearing – where further licence suspension would be considered:

·        A $50 fee for reinstatement of your license;

If your BAC level is over .08 or you refuse to provide a breath or blood sample to police, you will face additional consequences:

·        An immediate automatic three-month administrative license suspension;

·        Vehicle impoundment;

·        A mandatory impaired driver’s assessment at a cost of $625;

·        A license surcharge premium of up to $999 to Manitoba Public Insurance;

·        Completion of a driver’s exam or a driving course at a cost of $35-$50.

So, if you still think it’s okay to drink and drive, think again. When you drink and drive in Manitoba – YOU LOSE!  Please keep our streets and highways safe by not drinking and driving.

Be safe – Drive Safe and Don’t Drink and Drive.  Happy Motoring!

To report Road Hazards or inquire about Traffic Matters in the City of Brandon contact the Brandon Police Service Traffic Section at 729-2345.