In 2015, 72,039 people got in their vehicle’s and were involved in incidents in which alcohol impairment was involved. In 2016, there was an accident on the Saskatchewan highway where the driver had a blood-alcohol concentration that was almost three times the legal limit, ending in a family of four being killed. While out that night, the accused had been served alcohol at two different liquor establishments and these vendors did not stop the driver from getting behind the wheel. As of July 6th, 2017, SGI has filed a statement of claim against the vendors who served the driver, a first of its kind in Saskatchewan.
According to SGI, more than 600 people have been killed, and more than 4000 injured in collisions involving alcohol in Saskatchewan over the last decade. Stats Canada states that in 2015 Saskatchewan had the highest police-related impaired driving rate in Canada.
People between the ages of 20 to 24 have the highest police-reported impairments. New legislation, enforced by SGI, includes zero tolerance for alcohol or drugs for drivers 21 and under and for new drivers. If you or your child is under the age of 21, be cautious because fines for being caught with any drugs or alcohol in your system could include a 60-day suspension, having your vehicle impounded, towing and storage costs, and more. That is only for a first offense after that penalties become even more severe.
New as of January 1st, 2017, has your Saskatchewan provincial legal alcohol limit changed from .08 to .04 for experienced drivers over the age of 21. If your BAC is between .04 and .08, the charges can be just as severe as the zero tolerance for ages 21 and under. Having a BAC of .08 and higher, however, can result in Criminal Code charges and an ignition interlock cost of $1,260.
These new laws effect drivers ages in Saskatchewan, so if you decide that you are going to be drinking, plan a safe ride home by having a designated driver or call a taxi. If you have any questions about these new laws, please give us a call or contact your local SGI office. Stay safe out there!