A Sober Reminder

Twenty-three people were killed on Nova Scotia's roads in 1999 as a result of alcohol. Another 422 people were injured. These sobering statistics are a reminder that drinking and driving don't mix.

"As we head into the first long weekend of summer, we're reminding people to stay safe, and stay sober when they're behind the wheel," said Justice Minister Michael Baker.

Halifax Regional Police and RCMP from around the province have set up checkpoints today to remind drivers to be careful as the summer heats up and traffic increases. During the checkpoints, information will be provided on the province's 24-hour roadside suspension program. It allows police to remove potentially drunk drivers from the road if their blood alcohol level is between .05 and .08.

"Last year we had 575 alcohol related accidents. That number is simply unacceptable," said Dwight Bishop, assistant commissioner of the RCMP. "We'll be out in full force this summer, reminding drivers that we all have a responsibility to keeping our roads, and our citizens, safe."

Drivers were also reminded to call 911 if they spot someone they suspect is drinking and driving. They also have the option of calling Crime Stoppers, where the information they provide can be given anonymously and could lead to a cash award.

"One fatality is one too many," said Chief David McKinnon of the Halifax Regional Police. "While summer may be a more relaxed time of year, we can never be relaxed about safety. It's important to be careful out there."

Nova Scotia's sentences for those convicted of drunk driving were increased last December. Drunk driving convictions stay on your driving record for 10 years, instead of five. Licence suspensions for second-time offenders were increased from two to three years. A third offence results in a minimum 10 year suspension. Fourth time offenders will lose their driver's licence forever.