During the kick-off to the 2013 summer Counterattack campaign, Langley RCMP spent the first night of the long weekend (Friday, June 28) on Golden Ears Bridge, making sure drivers weren’t impaired.
Police didn’t actually hand out too many impaired driving violations, said Langley RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Holly Marks.
Two 24-hour driving suspensions were handed out for drug impairment, two for failing a roadside sobriety test, one seizure of drugs, three prohibited drivers and only one three-day vehicle impound for impairment.
“The big numbers came for seatbelts and cellphones,” said Marks.
More than 100 drug and alcohol impaired drivers were found across the Lower Mainland.
“Those are bitte sweet results. It’s definitely frustrating knowing that people still drink or take drugs, and then get behind the wheel,” says Cpl. Robert McDonald of Lower Mainland Traffic Services. “On the other hand my fellow police officers take pride in knowing we may have prevented dozens of potential tragic long weekend crashes.”
ICBC supports the Counterattack campaign.
“We want everyone to enjoy their summer so make sure you have a plan for a safe ride home before you head out,” said Leanne Cassap, local ICBC road safety coordinator.
Marks urges Langley drivers to be safe, don’t get behind the wheel impaired. Counterattack will be going strong, in various places in Langley all summer, she said.