Police are seeing more drivers who are impaired by drugs during routine check stops.
And they’re also still seeing way too many drivers who’ve gotten behind the wheel after drinking.
Corman Park Police Chief Ron Chomyn says that trend needs to stop.
Now.
“Impaired driving hurts us all; through deaths, injuries and property damage, as well as costs for health care and emergency response services,” said Chomyn.
“But the impact on families and friends lasts a lifetime. There are no excuses anymore. Nothing would please me more than to see zero suspensions or impaired charges at the end of a check stop…it hasn’t happened yet.”
Chomyn said police check stops are effective in preventing tragedies because they take impaired drivers off the road.
But, he added, enforcement is only part of the answer.
Drivers need to change their attitude and behaviour.
He cited a chilling example:
“On Wednesday, April 20, after being charged with driving while disqualified and having their vehicle impounded on Highway 11 North last night, the driver called a friend for a ride,” said Chomyn
“This friend arrived while under the influence of alcohol while police were still present. Upon failing a roadside breath test, the driver was arrested for impaired driving and unfortunately landed himself a day in court.”
Chomyn said the Corman Park Police Service (CPPS) is committed to changing driver behaviour. He noted that there have been three fatalities on area highways in the past few weeks. These tragic incidents are a sharp reminder of the need for drivers to focus their full attention on safety.
Although impaired driving is often highlighted as the major cause of death on Saskatchewan roadways, many drivers still get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol, cannabis or other drugs, said Chomyn.
“Most people equate impaired driving to someone who staggers and stumbles out of a bar; but having even two or three drinks will still impair your reaction time and your ability to safely drive.”
He said drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to lack perspective, to drive at higher speeds, and to take aggressive actions.
“Aggressive driving and speed, along with impaired operation, will be a continued focus of our police service,” said Chomyn.
“We’ll be enforcing the law on all roadways, including all the secondary roads within the RM of Corman Park.
“Driving is not your right. It is a privilege granted to you and if you choose to disregard the safety of those sharing the road with you, expect to see us in your rear-view mirror.”
Chomyn said impaired driving is not the only concern for CPPS Officers.
“We are seeing extreme speeds not only on the major highways but on secondary roads as well,” he said.
“Disregard for stop signs and traffic signs…the entire gamut!
“If a zero-tolerance approach is needed in order to save lives, reduce risk and ensure the safety of those motorists utilizing the roadways in a safe manner, I am prepared to go that route.”
With spring around the corner, Corman Park Police and all law enforcement partners are asking you to change behaviour when it comes to operating your vehicle.