Nine impaired drivers were removed from Kootenay highways by the BC Highway Patrol (BCHP) during a recent coordinated two-day operation, preventing potentially dangerous drivers from putting other road users at risk. 

On October 23 and 24 officers from BCHP Cranbrook and Nelson conducted an enforcement operation on Highway 3 and 95 near Yahk. The operation was part of a larger collaborative effort involving multiple partners, with BCHP focusing on criminal interdiction and road safety, including identifying and removing drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Enforcement results included one repeat impaired driving offender who was arrested and is facing recommended Criminal Code charges, three drivers issued 90-day immediate roadside prohibitions, two issued 3-day prohibitions, and three issued 24-hour prohibitions, including one involving drug impairment. Eight vehicles were also impounded for between 3 and 30 days.   

In total, BCHP officers laid 44 charges during the operation, including those for a prohibited driver and two drivers traveling at excessive speeds of more than 40 km/h above the posted speed limit. Officers also seized illegal contraband tobacco during two separate incidents. 

"Removing nine impaired drivers from our highways is a significant result. Every impaired driver we remove represents a potential tragedy prevented,” says Sergeant Brett Reiben with BC Highway Patrol Cranbrook. “Our primary goal is to improve road and public safety. Working alongside our partners allowed for a strong and visible enforcement presence on our highways”. 

BC Highway Patrol reminds motorists that impaired driving is entirely preventable. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, arrange a safe ride, and never operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Motorists can also expect initiatives will continue to be conducted throughout the Kootenay region to ensure the safety of all road users.