Drinking and driving is an issue that affects everyone, whether male or female, young or old. It is one of the leading causes of accidents on Québec roads.
Each year on average, from 2015 to 2019, due to alcohol:
Refusing or failing to blow into a breathalyzer or perform physical coordination tests automatically results in stiffer penalties. For example, the penalties under the Highway Safety Code are the same as those for driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 160 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood (0.16), i.e. more than twice the legal limit!
The law not only prohibits impaired driving, but also having the care or control of a vehicle while impaired. Here are some situations that can have the same consequences as impaired driving:
The police officer will assess whether it was possible for the person to drive the vehicle and whether he or she intended to drive.
Insist that your friend sleep over. Is he or she stubbornly refusing? Express your disagreement strongly and support those who speak up. Persuasion is more effective as a group.
Never get in a vehicle with a driver who has been drinking if you suspect that he or she is impaired.
At the same time, talk him or her out of driving and suggest an alternative, such as public transit, a taxi, a rideshare service, or a drive-home service.
Last update: June 2, 2022