The Consequences for Driving While Impaired in Alberta

When driving in Alberta, it’s vital to be cautious to keep yourself and others on the road safe. Some laws determine what you can or cannot do while driving, and you have to follow them to avoid penalties. Alberta lawmakers crafted these traffic laws and regulations to keep everyone safe, regardless of how good they are at driving.

If you drive recklessly and neglect traffic laws, it could lead to an accident. Car accidents can cause property damage, injuries, financial compensation, emotional distress, and death in some cases. Many factors can contribute to causing an accident, including speeding, texting while driving, neglect of traffic signs, impatience, and driving under the influence (DUI).

Alcohol and drugs affect people’s perception of the world around them and their decision-making ability. A driver who is intoxicated may have a late response to incidents occurring on the road, leading to an accident. For example, a car may swerve into their lane, and they may be unable to apply the brakes quickly, causing a rear-end collision. Being intoxicated can also make you misread traffic signs or forget to take proper precautions while driving, and run into a pedestrian.

The dangers of driving under the influence are what prompted the Alberta government to create new traffic laws and punishments for impaired driving 2020.  If you are arrested on a DUI charge, you should call a lawyer so they can help you navigate the situation. Reputable law firms like Liberty Law have seasoned lawyers who understand Alberta’s traffic laws and can help you navigate the situation. Liberty Law impaired driving lawyers Edmonton can use their expertise to reduce your punishment and determine if you were actually in breach of the law when arrested.

If you are found to be driving impaired, you will face immediate sanctions like fines, suspension of your driver’s license, car seizure, or participation in the Ignition Interlock Program. The exact punishment you will face varies by case. However, if your impaired driving causes a serious injury or death, you may face jail time and be exposed to lawsuits.

To avoid driving while impaired, it’s best to not take drugs or drink shortly before you drive. If you do, ensure there is someone with you that has a valid drivers license and can drive you home safely. If not, stay where you are until you are completely sober. While it may seem like an inconvenience, doing so will save you from violating the law or inadvertently causing an accident. 

Endnote

The Alberta government takes the lives and safety of its citizens seriously,  and it recognizes the danger of impaired driving. This is why they have passed laws that swiftly punish those who engage in it. The laws against impaired driving and DUI are meant to act as a deterrent, so people will drive responsibly and avoid car accidents. This preventative measure has a better outcome than waiting for accidents to happen and dealing with them afterwards.