The Winnipeg Police Service, in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), is committed to Impaired Driving Enforcement within the City of Winnipeg. A drug-impaired driving enforcement project has now begun.
The legalization of Cannabis in 2018 has heightened the need for law enforcement officers to be on the lookout for drivers under the influence of this and other drugs. The enforcement project will focus on detecting and processing drivers under the influence of cannabis and other drugs, throughout the city.
The message is simple: if you plan on consuming drugs or alcohol, don't drive. Driving impaired is dangerous, detectable and illegal.
"Enforcement is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to making our roads safer," says Inspector Marc Philippot of the WPS Central Traffic Division. "Keeping our roadways safe starts with us choosing to always plan for a safe ride home. Please do your part."
Specially trained officers assigned to the project include members who are certified Drug Recognition Experts (DREs) and utilize tools such as Approved Drug Screening devices.
January 16, 2024, marked the first day of the project with the following results:
- 35 traffic stops
- 11 Oral Fluid Tests, which resulted in 4 positive for Cannabis
- 5 Provincial Offences Act notices (POAs) were issued for unlawful storage of Cannabis
These early statistics show 9 violations for 35 police interactions, or about 1 in 4 drivers who were in contravention of various laws. This is a concerning statistic which compromises safety for all users of our roadways and has the potential to lead to tragic outcomes. We have taken notice and are taking action.
Additional information will be shared as the project continues, including ongoing education on the dangers of driving under the influence of Cannabis.
Addictions Foundation of Manitoba link below:
https://afm.mb.ca/programs-and-services/impaired-driver-program/