RCMP and Sheriffs Stepping up traffic enforcement for long weekend

This Canada Day long weekend, the Integrated Traffic Services of the RCMP and Alberta Traffic Sheriffs will be monitoring and enforcing traffic safety on Alberta highways in an effort to improve public safety.

The goal of the integrated Traffic Services is to ensure all road users in Alberta enjoy safe travels while they celebrate Canada's birthday. The integrated Traffic Services will be conducting traffic safety operations including Alberta Check Stops, and enhanced enforcement at locations throughout the Province.

This year, the Police will have one more tool in the fight against impaired driving, the enhancements of Bill 26 to the Alberta Administrative Licence Suspensions (AALS) will be in effect July 01. This will mean that any driver charged with impaired driving will be immediately suspended for the entire duration of the court process, and the vehicle will be subject to a minimum 3 day seizure.

Novice drivers under the Graduated Drivers Licence (GDL) Alberta Zero Alcohol Tolerance (AZAT)program, still have a zero tolerance for alcohol and if alcohol is detected they will be subject of an immediate 30 day suspension and a 7 day vehicle seizure.

The Integrated Traffic Services will be focusing on dangerous driving behaviors with enhanced presence to deter the primary injury and fatal causation factors of impaired driving, occupant restraints, intersection and distracted driving, speed and other aggressive driving behaviors.

Motorists are reminded to always drive responsibly and use safe driving practices as they travel to and from their destination. Don't become a statistic this long weekend.