Not one driver of at least 280 that have been pulled over by Sundre RCMP officers this month has been found to be driving impaired.
Officers have been conducting check stops in the Sundre area and will be doing so throughout the month of December, as it is “impaired driving season”.
“It has been noticed, and applauded, by the RCMP members that many people are choosing alternative methods to get home after their night out,” said Cpl. Ryan Hodge.
“Designated drivers, shuttle services and taxis have been busy making sure that everyone gets home safely.”
He said a frequently asked question has been what the outcome would be if a person refuses to comply with a lawful demand from an officer.
If a driver refuses to comply with a lawful demand they can be charged under section 254 of the Criminal Code, he said.
A lawful demand could include a breath sample, a blood sample, physical coordination tests, or a drug evaluation.
Another frequently asked question has been regarding how many drinks a person can have before becoming impaired.
“Impairment begins with the first drink,” he said.
“The effects of alcoholic drinks vary greatly because the rate of absorption and blood alcohol concentration (BAC) attained vary from person to person due to factors such as weight, amount of fat tissue, and stomach contents.”
