Winnipeg police have announced that every driver pulled over during the Checkstop program must now provide a breath sample, in an effort to crack down on impaired driving.
The new policy, which went into effect on January 1st, requires all drivers to provide a breath sample, regardless of whether or not they show any signs of impairment. This means that even if a driver appears sober, they will still be required to provide a breath sample.
According to police, this change is necessary to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road. “Impaired driving continues to be a major issue in our city, and we are taking every measure possible to address it,” said Constable John Smith in a statement.
The Checkstop program, which has been in place for over 30 years, involves setting up roadblocks at various locations throughout the city to check for impaired drivers. In 2020, over 1,000 drivers were charged with impaired driving during the program.
While some may see the new policy as an inconvenience, police stress that it is a necessary step in keeping the roads safe. “We understand that this may cause some delays for drivers, but the safety of our community is our top priority,” said Smith.
The new policy has received mixed reactions from the public. Some believe it is a necessary measure to combat impaired driving, while others feel it is an invasion of privacy. However, police maintain that the breath samples will only be used to determine impairment and will not be kept on record.
In addition to the breath sample requirement, police will also be conducting field sobriety tests and using drug recognition experts to detect impairment. Those who refuse to provide a breath sample will face the same penalties as those who are found to be impaired.
The Checkstop program will continue to operate throughout the year, with the new breath sample policy in place. Police urge all drivers to plan ahead and find a safe way home if they plan on consuming alcohol or drugs.
The safety of our roads is a responsibility that falls on all of us, and the new policy is just one step in the ongoing effort to combat impaired driving in Winnipeg.
