Calgary Police Conduct Traffic Stops for Drunk Drivers This Holiday Season
Calgary police marked the start of the holiday season with a massive traffic stop in the city's southwest on Saturday.
It began around 8:00 PM at Stoney Trail and Fishcreek Boulevard. New traffic stops have been added to mark National Impaired Driving Day.
Throughout the month of December, Calgary Police will be working with the RCMP, MADD Calgary and Alberta Sheriffs to deliver important messages about the dangers of driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld told CityNews that most fatal crashes are preventable and urged Calgarians to plan safe trips.
He says speed, impairment and distraction are the three main issues that lead to crashes in Calgary.
This year, there have been about 1,700 total drunk driving charges, with people failing a drink or drug test making up the majority (more than 1,200). But it has dropped since 2023, when more than 1,900 charges were filed.
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When it comes to finding safe transportation, police say having a designated driver, taking public transportation, renting a taxi or staying the night are all possible options.
CPS Traffic Section Sergeant Brad Norman says motorists can expect an increase in drunk driving stops throughout the month and drunk driving will not be tolerated on Calgary roads.
"We encourage Calgarians to safely enjoy holidays, parties and events in the coming weeks and encourage everyone to plan ahead for these types of trips, with the goal of returning home safely by the end of the evening ", he said.
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