The number of vehicles stopped during the fourth week of the Winnipeg Police Service’s Holiday Season Checkstop Program has drastically decreased since the week prior. According to data released on Tuesday, police said 272 vehicles were stopped between Dec. 21 and Dec. 28—that’s 911 less than during the third week of the program. It seems like Winnipeg drivers have also learned their lesson about the consequences of driving impaired. Only 10 drivers were found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, down from 36 the previous week. Following the trend, eight drivers were issued a “warn” on a breath screening device, resulting in a license suspension—compared to 21 in week three. Two drivers also received immediate roadside prohibition. Winnipeg police noted that every driver stopped will be required to provide a breath sample, and drug screening equipment will be used to detect signs of cannabis impairment. Manitobans are also reminded to make alternative driving arrangements if they are planning on drinking or consuming cannabis, including calling Operation Red Nose, using rideshare services, Winnipeg Transit, or coordinating a designated driver. The program runs through New Year’s Eve.
