Police forces around province report 404 impaired driving offences in May

Although 2017 saw the lowest number of deaths and injuries resulting from impaired driving in Saskatchewan since 1988, not everyone got the message.

In its May traffic safety spotlight, SGI said police reported 404 impaired driving offences, including 352 criminal code charges.

SGI said the data show police are staying focused on catching impaired drivers, and that some residents still haven’t learned the lesson that they should plan a safe ride home. Impaired driving is still the leading cause of death on Saskatchewan roads.

SGI also said the data show the odds of getting caught if you decide to drink and drive are higher than ever before.

Other traffic infractions during May included 544 distracted driving offences (447 for cellphone use), 6,087 tickets for speeding or aggressive driving and 445 offences regarding seat belts and child cart seats.

Meanwhile, with graduation season underway, Regina police are asking those celebrating not to drink and drive or text and drive. Those who do drink should call a taxi or secure a safe ride home.

Police advise drivers to put their cellphones in a glove compartment, in a bag or turn them off.

Anyone who sees an impaired driver or knows of someone who is planning to drive impaired is urged to immediately call 911.