Navigating the Consequences of Impaired Driving in Alberta
In Alberta, the penalties for impaired driving are stringent, reflecting the seriousness with which the province views this offense.
The Edmonton Police Service outlines both criminal charges and Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) that can be applied to impaired drivers, emphasizing the legal and financial repercussions of such actions.
Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) in Alberta
The IRS system in Alberta introduces immediate penalties for drivers found to be impaired by alcohol or drugs.
These sanctions are designed to provide swift consequences and include:
- First Offense (Fail): An immediate 90-day license suspension, followed by eligibility for a one-year Interlock program. Offenders face a $1000 fine, along with towing and impound costs, Interlock device costs, and course fees.
- Second Offense (Fail): Similar to the first offense but with the Interlock program extending to three years and a $2000 fine.
- Third and Subsequent Offenses (Fail): An immediate 90-day suspension, with eligibility for a Lifetime Interlock program after 90 days (possible exemption after 10 years), and a $2000 fine.
For drivers with a blood alcohol concentration between 50mg% and 80mg%, lesser sanctions apply, escalating with each offense from a 3-day suspension and $300 fine for the first offense to a 30-day suspension and $1200 fine for third and subsequent offenses.
Criminal Charges for Impaired Driving
Beyond IRS, drivers may also face criminal impaired driving charges, which involve a more complex legal process including court appearances, potential jail time, and longer-term driving prohibitions.
The specifics of these charges can vary based on the circumstances of the offense and the driver’s history.
Key Points for Alberta Drivers
- License Suspension: Immediate and significant, with durations increasing with subsequent offenses.
- Financial Penalties: Substantial fines accompany IRS, alongside other costs like towing, impound, and Interlock device expenses.
- Criminal Charges: Possible for any offense, with penalties that can include jail time and long-term driving prohibitions.
FAQs: Understanding Impaired Driving Penalties in Alberta
Q: Can you appeal an Immediate Roadside Sanction in Alberta? A: Yes, drivers have the right to appeal IRS through SafeRoads Alberta, offering a pathway to contest the imposed penalties.
Q: What happens if you refuse to provide a breath sample? A: Refusal can lead to criminal charges under the Criminal Code of Canada, in addition to the immediate roadside sanctions.
Q: Are there any educational courses required for offenders? A: Yes, offenders may be required to complete remedial courses, such as the “Crossroads” course for second offenses and the “IMPACT” course for third and subsequent offenses.
The Impact of Impaired Driving in Alberta
Alberta’s approach to impaired driving emphasizes prevention, immediate accountability, and the potential for rehabilitation through educational programs.
The province’s penalties are structured to deter impaired driving and ensure that those who commit these offenses face immediate and significant consequences.
Sources and Further Reading
- Edmonton Police Service – Impaired Driving Charges: Offers a detailed overview of the penalties for impaired driving in Alberta, including both IRS and criminal charges. Impaired Driving Charges – Edmonton Police Service
- Alberta.ca – Impaired Driving Penalties: Provides information on the provincial approach to impaired driving penalties and the legal framework supporting these measures. Impaired Driving Penalties – Alberta.ca
