Increased driving enforcement will keep Cowichan communities safer during music festival season, according to the BC Highway Patrol.
Officers are amping up their efforts, particularly as it relates to Laketown Shakedown, Sunfest, and other big events, according to a press release issued June 25.
"With summer weather approaching, Vancouver Island will see a higher volume of motorists on the highways as campers, tourists, and festival attendees flock to the Island," said BC Highway Patrol spokesperson Cpl. Melissa Jongema in the release. "As a result, BC Highway Patrol will be conducting impaired driving enforcement near recreational areas and festivals over the July and August long weekends especially in the Lake Cowichan area."
The BC Association of Chiefs of Police impaired driving campaign runs from June 15 to Aug. 31, 2024. That means all summer long the BC Highway Patrol will be out on the streets with increased impaired driving enforcement. Patrons of festivals and large events where liquor will be served should take note.
Similar efforts to curb impaired driving took place over the May long weekend and according to police, "officers demonstrated zero tolerance for impaired driving which led to the elimination of impaired driving fatal collisions in BC Highway Patrol jurisdictions."
"Similarly, BC Highway Patrol officers will be targeting impaired drivers from recreational areas, fairs, and music festivals to eliminate traffic fatalities on the Island this summer," Jongema, said. "There are many free or low-cost safe ride options available to event attendees including: shuttles, taxis, ride-shares, transit, and rides with designated drivers. If you are planning to attend a large event and drink liquor or consume drugs, please arrange for a safe ride."
Under the Criminal Code, police officers can compel anyone operating a motor vehicle to provide a sample of their breath into an Approved Screening Device. Impaired driving penalties include 24-hour driving prohibitions, three-day, 30-day, and 90-day immediate driving prohibitions with vehicle impounds and possibly criminal charges.