Staff Sergeant Patrick Barbar of the Saskatoon Police Service says throughout the long weekend, checkstops will be set-up both in the city and on highways.
In addition to using checkstops, police will be using a variety of other ways to catch those driving impaired says Tyler McMurchy, a spokesperson for SGI.
“Whether it’s an unmarked vehicle stationed near a local watering hole, whether it’s following up on a tip from the public who called 9-1-1 to report a suspected impaired driver.”
Every month, police in Saskatchewan catch between 200 and 400 impaired drivers. McMurchy adds they want people to enjoy themselves, but do so by planning a safe ride home.
“We’re not saying don’t have a couple of beer this long weekend, we’re not saying don’t enjoy yourself at the Rider game, we’re just saying make a plan. Take a bus, take a cab, take ride share, take a designated driving service.”
Below are 10 signs of an impaired driver…
1. Drifting in and out of lanes
2. Driving unreasonably fast, slow or at an inconsistent speed
3. Tailgating and changing lanes frequently
4. Making exceptionally wide turns
5. Changing lanes or passing without sufficient clearance
6. Overshooting or stopping well before stop signs or stop lights
7. Disregarding signals and lights
8. Approaching or leaving intersections too quickly or slowly
9. Driving with windows open in cold or inclement weather
10. Driving without headlights, failing to lower high beams or leaving turn signals on
If you observe someone you suspect is driving while impaired, you’re encouraged to call 9-1-1 to report it through the Report Impaired Drivers (RID) program.
