Every year in Alberta, impaired driving injuries and fatalities change lives forever. The impact doesn’t just end with the driver—it devastates families, friends, and entire communities.
And impaired driving isn’t just about alcohol. It includes being under the influence of drugs (including cannabis), fatigue, distraction, or even prescription medication. In fact, studies show that even small amounts of cannabis can impair your ability to drive—and the risk increases dramatically when alcohol and cannabis are combined.
Let’s all plan ahead and prevent impaired driving:
- Choose a designated driver before you head out.
- Book a taxi or rideshare to get home safely.
- Call a friend or loved one if you’re in no shape to drive.
- Get enough rest before long drives.
- Keep your phone and distractions out of reach while driving.
Alberta has some of the strictest impaired driving laws in Canada, and the consequences are serious:
- Fines up to $2,000
- Immediate 90-day licence suspension
- Vehicle seized for up to 30 days
- Repeat offenders face mandatory education programs, ignition interlock devices, and even lifetime licence suspensions
And that’s not all—criminal charges can apply, especially when impaired driving causes injury or death.
Quick Facts:
- Impaired driving includes all motor vehicles—cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, aircraft, and trains.
- In 2023, 1 in 14 drivers involved in a fatal crash was legally impaired.
- 29 people lost their lives and 214 were seriously injured due to impaired driving.
- For new drivers and commercial drivers, zero tolerance applies for any alcohol or drug use.
Let’s make our roads safer—for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Drive smart. Drive sober.
