Tougher drunk driving regulations welcome, says Sundre RCMP detachment commander
By Dan Singleton
Round Up staff
Pull quote: “A lot of people maybe don't realize the affect alcohol can have on their driving” - Sgt. Percy Leipnitz.
Proposed new Alberta legislation that, if passed, would see drivers receive immediate licence suspensions of three days if they are caught with blood alcohol levels greater than 50 mg per cent will hopefully help reduce impaired driving incidents in the district, says Sundre RCMP Sgt. Percy Leipnitz.
“I think those changes are a good idea,” said Leipnitz. “A lot of people maybe don't realize the affect alcohol can have on their driving. A lot of people will have a couple beer and think they are good, but they are not, they are impaired. Impairment is something you can have with only a few drinks.
“What they have is a good idea and will hopefully help deter some of the people drinking and driving. I always hope people won't drink and drive.”
Leipnitz recommends people not consume any alcohol if they are planning to drive.
Bill 26, the Alberta Traffic Safety Amendment Act 2011, was introduced in the Alberta Legislature last week. It proposes progressive sanctions for drivers in the 50 mg per cent to 80 mg per cent, including three day licence suspensions and three day vehicle seizures.
It also imposes tougher sanctions on impaired drivers, including mandatory education and treatment programs for repeat offenders.
“Not only does Alberta's approach target repeat offenders, it is designed to reduce the number of drivers who become repeat offenders in the first place,” said Transportation Minister Ray Danyluk. “I have one goal for this legislation - and that is having more Albertans arrive home safe at the end of the day.”
