Impaired driving. Image credit: Unsplash/Elsa Olofsson
CMEDIA: Quebec provincial police (SQ) officers have reportedly arrested more than 800 drivers in just over a month leading into 2025, for alleged impairment by drugs, alcohol or a combination of both.
Agents throughout the province from Nov. 29 to Jan. 2 were deployed by police along with Quebec’s auto insurance board (SAAQ) and set up road checks, the SQ said in a news release.
“The implementation of these road checks targeting the ability to drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs allowed the police to intervene both coercively and in terms of awareness among many drivers,” the SQ release reads.
With an aim to raise awareness of the importance of not driving drunk or high, and designating a sober driver, the theme of the operation was “there are plenty of good reasons to be a designated driver.”
Road checks will continue throughout the year, the SQ said, adding the mandatory screening in force allowing police officers to demand a breathalyzer sample during any roadside check.
“No matter what time of year it is, the rule still applies: when you consume alcohol or drugs, you do not drive,” the SQ said. “So plan an alternative solution, they are numerous and accessible.”
