If you drink and drive you will be facing new sanctions beginning Monday, December 16, 2019.
The new sanctions will give law enforcement additional powers when stopping suspected impaired drivers and at the same time will provide an alternative to the costly criminal court process for those who fail or refuse a test.
“Immediate roadside prohibition means we will be able to take more impaired drivers off the road sooner,” said Justice Minister Cliff Cullen. “The strong sanctions in place are yet another good reason to make the right choice and never drive while impaired. Manitoba continues to be a leader in dealing with impaired drivers, and together we are saving lives.”
Financial penalties, more vehicle impoundments and mandatory ignition locks are all part of the new regulations.
Drivers who show a ‘warn’ during testing using the new screening devices will see fines starting at $700. A third ‘warn’ violation will see that fine grow to $3,420.
If a driver fails a roadside screening test the minimum fine is $3,520. If you refuse to take the test you get slapped with a $3,970 fine.
Police will also have the option to proceed with criminal charges when they feel it is warranted.
The new sanctions were first announced by the province on November 7, 2019.
© News4.ca 2020
