The Winnipeg Police Service, in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance, is in the midst of a Roadwatch drug-impaired driving enforcement project in Winnipeg. The project focuses on detecting and processing drivers under the influence of cannabis and other drugs. It runs through the end of February.
RoadWatch is an initiative supported by Manitoba Public Insurance to prevent impaired driving, allowing for greater enforcement on our roads.
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. Drug impaired driving can lead to tragic outcomes, compromising the safety of all users of our roadways. We have taken notice and are taking action.
Education and awareness campaign underway
Recognizing the need for greater education and awareness regarding the dangers of impaired driving, Winnipeggers can expect to see and hear a simple message for Manitoba motorists:
• Don't Drive High. It's dangerous, detectable and definitely illegal.
This education and enforcement project is part of the Traffic Division's commitment to road safety by promoting responsible driving through enforcement and education. Manitoba Justice has allocated approximately $35,000 from federal drug-impaired driving funds to support the education campaign.
Whether impaired by alcohol or cannabis, driving impaired can have deadly consequences.
We’re hopeful this campaign will bring this deadly habit or complacency back into the minds of drivers, who will, in turn make better decisions before getting behind the wheel if they have been consuming cannabis.
We all have a role to play in road safety. We thank our partners and Manitoba motorists who choose to avoid driving impaired and help make our roads safe for other drivers and pedestrians.