Impaired Driving Law in Canada

A violation of the Impaired Driving Law is a serious matter. Depending on the circumstances, a person could lose their licence and their vehicle, as well as face administrative penalties of up to $4,000. The Impaired Driving Law is enforced in almost every province in Canada. It also applies to foreign countries. In Canada, a driver whose BAC is over 0.05 percent will automatically lose their license. If a person is arrested for drunk driving, they can lose their license immediately.

The law requires that an impaired driver must be tested at least twice a day for blood alcohol levels. This testing may be performed at a designated location, using a blood test or drug patch, or by urinalysis. Alternatively, an ignition interlock monitoring device can be used twice a day without the driver operating the vehicle. This alternative method must be approved by NHTSA. The number of fatalities caused by impaired driving is calculated using the most recent three-year final data.

A driver charged with an impaired driving offense must take a standardized test. The results will indicate whether the person is legally drunk. If they are, they will receive a license suspension for at least a year. A second-time offender will likely have their license suspended and face increased fines. A driver who has a history of impaired driving is at a much greater risk for a conviction than someone who is intoxicated once. A criminal defense attorney will know how to defend the accused and the best course of action. A lawyer can explain all aspects of the impaired driving law and how to successfully negotiate with the prosecutor. A lawyer can help a person save their license and driving record and ensure that the prosecutor will agree to the plea bargain.

While alcohol and other drugs impair the ability to operate a motor vehicle, these substances also affect the driver's perception of time and distance. Alcohol also impairs judgment and can affect reactions to situations. Drugs can also impair judgment, concentration, and motor skills. Therefore, impaired drivers are at a greater risk of losing control of the vehicle, putting the lives of other people in danger. This is why it is important to understand and respect the Impaired Driving Law.

States should publicize their efforts to enforce the Impaired Driving Law. In addition to high-profile campaigns and heightened enforcement, impaired driving law enforcement efforts must be publicized and widely publicized. To make a difference, states should develop a comprehensive communications program that incorporates both earned and paid media. In addition, they should coordinate resources with other law enforcement agencies in order to reach a wider audience. Lastly, states should coordinate resources to conduct highly visible campaigns throughout the year.

Depending on the state, first time DUI offenders may face suspension of their licenses, ignition interlock devices, and probation. A criminal charge may also be filed. In addition to these penalties, offenders may face jail time. Some states have zero-tolerance laws, which prohibit minors from driving while impaired. If they fail to meet the requirements, they will face criminal prosecution. The state's Impaired Driving Law defines the legal limits for a person's blood alcohol concentration.