Surrey police issue 73 impaired driving penalties over May long weekend

A Surrey Police Service patch is seen on an officer's uniform in Surrey, B.C., on Friday, Nov. 29, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

The Surrey Police Service says officers handed out over 70 penalties related to impaired driving over the May long weekend.

Between Friday and Monday, the department’s Road Safety Section and Impaired Driving Unit issued 73 prohibitions for impaired driving during proactive patrols, according to a news release issued Tuesday.

The SPS did not provide details about specific cases, but says penalties ranged from Criminal Code charges to immediate roadside prohibitions.

“Impaired driving remains one of the major causes of collisions across British Columbia,” the release reads. “SPS would like to remind drivers that alcohol, cannabis, illegal drugs, and certain prescription medications can all impair a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle by impacting reaction time, judgement, co-ordination, and attention.”

According to ICBC, an average of 65 people die in crashes involving impaired driving per year.

The department urged people to opt for a taxi, ride share or transit, or make sure they have a designated driver.

It also reminded motorists who suspect someone else is driving under the influence to call 911.