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Drinking and driving is known as a taboo — yet still 32 people die every year in Saskatchewan due to it.
Recently, Brittany Barry, a 32-year-old from the RM of Blucher, mother of two, was driving on highway 11 near Dundurn while being intoxicated she caused a car accident resulting in the deaths of 50-year-old Laura Hannah and her daughter, 20-year-old Jamie Hannah back in October of 2024, was sentenced to six years in jail.
SGI is taking the time to remind parents and guardians to have conversations with their kids about the consequences of driving impaired.
“It might be a casual conversation on the way to the store, a quick chat when your kids are heading out the door, or a discussion while you’re playing a game together,” said JP Cullen, EVP and chief operating officer of the Saskatchewan Auto Fund.
SGI said in 2023, 14 per cent of impaired collisions in Sask. were by people under the age of 21 — yet they only make up eight per cent of drivers.
What should you talk about according to SGI:
- Consequences
- Alternative options
- Do what you say
In April 2024, 486 drivers were suspended or charged for impaired driving, of which 126 suspensions were for alcohol.
Consequences for impaired driving depend on several factors, SGI noted, including driver experience, repeat offences and passengers under the age of 16. But those caught with a BAC between .04 and .08 can expect an immediate roadside licence suspension, vehicle impoundment, a mandatory education program and four Save Driver Recognition demerits.
Since 2018, the Criminal Code has allowed police to demand a breath sample without any reasonable suspicion that a driver is impaired.
What to do when you see an impaired driver?
SGI says to pull over safely and call 9-1-1. Then, tell the operator the following information:
- Give the location
- Which direction the vehicle is going
- Vehicle description: colour, make, model and licence plate number
- Tell them what the driver is doing
- Tell them what the driver looks like, if possible.
