This Labour Day weekend, the RCMP is urging motorists to make safe choices on the road in hopes of preventing tragedies like the one that befell 17-year-old Alex Ollington four years ago. Ollington was described as a bright and caring individual who always wanted to make a difference in the world. Sadly, her life was cut short in a crash caused by a driver who was intoxicated. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of impaired driving, especially during long weekends when the potential for such incidents increases.
SGI is also urging drivers to make responsible choices this Labour Day weekend by avoiding impaired driving. They recommend having a designated driver, calling for a cab or rideshare, or arranging a ride from family or friends as alternatives to getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Despite the availability of these options, some individuals still choose to drive under the influence, leading to fatal collisions on the roads. Saskatchewan RCMP have reported 19 fatal collisions on rural roads so far this year, all linked to impaired driving.
Statistics show that alcohol is a contributing factor in almost 30 percent of fatal collisions each year in Saskatchewan. In an effort to reduce the number of impaired drivers on the road, the province implemented mandatory alcohol screening at traffic stops in April. The results have been promising, with a 165 percent increase in suspensions compared to the previous year. This number is expected to rise even further by the end of the year. Supt. Grant St. Germaine expressed disappointment over the continued prevalence of impaired driving but also noted the public’s support for measures aimed at improving road safety.
Maria Popiwchak, Alex Ollington’s mother, has been advocating for stricter measures against impaired driving since her daughter’s tragic death. She emphasizes the importance of drivers taking responsibility for their actions and making safe decisions on the road to prevent further tragedies like Alex’s. Popiwchak encourages drivers to think about the potential consequences of their choices and to prioritize safety when getting behind the wheel. She stresses that accidents can happen to anyone and urges everyone to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe journey home.
As Labour Day approaches, law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups are working together to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and promote safe driving practices. By sharing stories like Alex Ollington’s and highlighting the devastating impact of impaired driving on families and communities, they hope to encourage more drivers to make responsible choices on the road. With continued support from the public and the implementation of stricter measures, such as mandatory alcohol screening, there is a collective effort to make roads safer and prevent unnecessary tragedies. This long weekend, drivers are urged to prioritize safety and make responsible decisions to protect themselves and others on the road.
