Starting today, CounterAttack roadchecks will be set up by police across the province to keep impaired drivers off our roads throughout December.
While attitudes toward drinking and driving have changed considerably over the years, 86 lives are still lost every year in B.C., representing more than a quarter of all car crash fatalities.
On average, 29 people are killed in crashes involving impaired driving in the Southern Interior every year.
That's why the B.C. government, police and ICBC are urging drivers to plan ahead and make smart decisions to get home safely this holiday season.
"We've made significant progress but too many people are still losing their lives due to impaired driving," said Minister of Justice, Suzanne Anton. "CounterAttack remains a key part of our provincial enforcement strategy and further reducing crashes involving alcohol and drugs makes our roads safer for British Columbians."
ICBC is helping to prevent impaired driving this December with an education campaign, funding for CounterAttack roadchecks and promotion of designated drivers with businesses, sports facilities and community groups.
It's also the 20th year that ICBC has supported Operation Red Nose, a volunteer service in 25 B.C. communities that provides safe rides to drivers who have been drinking or feel too tired to drive during the holidays. This service is available now until December 19 on Friday and Saturday nights and on New Year's Eve.
Get more stats and facts from ICBC's infographic and learn more about the CounterAttack campaign on icbc.com.