Those heading out on the road this weekend may notice a heightened police presence as the annual CounterAttack road check campaign kicks off.
In fact, that heightened enforcement may be around for good as the provincial insurance agency has announced it will direct some of its annual advertising funds to increase road checks next fiscal year.
According to ICBC, impaired driving is the leading cause of fatal crashes with an average of 68 lives lost annually in the province. During the holiday season, the province, police forces and ICBC all team up to help ensure drivers are safe on the roads.
"We want everyone to enjoy the holidays with family and friends so make sure you plan ahead for a safe ride home,” said Lindsay Matthews, ICBC's vice-president responsible for road safety.
"Whether you're attending a holiday get-together or meeting friends to watch a game, if your festivities involve alcohol, please leave your car at home or find an alternate way to get home safe – use a designated driver, call a taxi, take transit or use Operation Red Nose."
Operation Red Nose is a volunteer service used in 19 B.C. communities to provide safe rides to drivers who feel unfit to get behind the wheel. During the holiday season, an average of 12 road teams of three people are on call each night of the service. They work from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 2, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and on New Year’s Eve. Clients can request a ride by calling 604-943-0460.
ICBC says that, on average, 17 people are killed in crashes involving impaired driving in the Lower Mainland every year.
