Categories: Community

The Dangers of Impaired Driving this Holiday Season

When you set out to spend time with your families and friends this holiday season, make sure to plan accordingly and arrange a ride home if necessary. It’s crucial to understand the immense dangers of impaired driving and adjust your attitudes and behaviours to reflect that. Members of our team at Sherwood Ford recently attended an event put on by Ford that raised awareness and provided important information regarding the risks of drug-impaired driving.

Raising awareness for impaired driving

Key players throughout Edmonton came together for this important event to help raise awareness for the issue of impaired driving. These include Gerald Wood (Ford Canada Western Manager), Bev Esslinger and Dake Loken (Edmonton Councillors), and Tim Shipton (Oilers Entertainment Group).

The issue of impaired driving in Edmonton

Sergeant Conrad Moschansky, the leader of the Edmonton Impaired Driving Unit, and Constable Kathy Nelson also attended the event and shared details regarding the issue of drug-impaired driving in Edmonton. While alcohol-impaired driving is still a big problem, drug impairment is as dangerous on the road. Although it has gained more recognition recently due to the possible legalization of cannabis, Sergeant Moschansky and Constable Nelson have been dealing with drug-impaired driving for a number of years.

In an effort to demonstrate drug impairment, Stew MacDonald (Oilers Entertainment Group) put on the Drugged Driving Suit and attempted a field sobriety test.

What is a Drugged Driving Suit?

A Drugged Driving Suit is designed to stimulate some of the effects of taking various drugs. For more information, check out the infographic below:

How can you help?

This holiday season, be sure to plan ahead and make smart decisions with regard to driving after consuming alcohol or drugs. If you aren’t fit to drive, call a cab or a close family member or friend. You can also help by raising awareness and changing attitudes about the issue of drug-impaired driving as well as empowering others to be smart and do the same.