The 2009 Christmas Checkstop program shows impaired drivers’ blood alcohol concentration has increased over past years, Edmonton police said Thursday.
The 2009 campaign was launched Nov. 4 and in that time, the average BAC in drivers was 11.5 per cent higher than what was seen five years ago.
Police charged 175 people with impaired driving.
“Are people getting the message?” said Sgt. Aubrey Zalaski of the Specialized Traffic Operations Unit. “I would have to say no.”
He said impaired drivers don’t plan ahead when they go out drinking. Having a designated driver is the best way to avoid putting themselves and others in danger.
Men aged 20 to 24 are the largest group charged with impaired driving. Those aged 25 to 29 come in a close second.
Police urge people to call 911 to report impaired drivers. In 2009, 857 impaired drivers were arrested because of such calls.
