Service NL
December 2, 2014

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Tony Cornect, Minister of Service NL:

Minister Recognizes National Safe Driving Week

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today in this Honourable House to recognize this week as National Safe Driving Week, which officially began December 1. There has been significant attention over the years to the issue of driving under the influence of alcohol; however, many people may not be aware that It’s Not Just Alcohol That Impairs, which is this year’s theme of Safe Driving Week.

This week is an important time to remind all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians that it is not only illegal to operate a motorized vehicle if your ability to drive is impaired by alcohol, but it is also illegal to drive under the influence of drugs. This can include illegal drugs, prescription or over the counter medication. This activity could result in charges under the Criminal Code even if the vehicle is not moving.

Mr. Speaker, many people are also not aware of the effects of fatigue on one’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Research shows the chances of making mistakes increase when you have slept less than five hours, or if you have been awake for more than 16 hours. In fact, if you have been awake for 17 hours or longer, it can be equivalent to illegal blood alcohol levels.

This year, motor vehicle collisions due to impaired driving will claim approximately 2,000 lives in Canada, between five and six people a day. In addition, 10,000 more individuals will be seriously injured, and most of these collisions are preventable.

This week provides a valuable and timely opportunity to raise awareness of potential road hazards and to cultivate safer, more defensive driving habits. It is a reminder to ensure our vehicles are properly equipped for the season, eliminate distractions behind the wheel, socialize responsibly and never drive impaired, whether that is under the influence of alcohol, drugs or fatigue.

As we move forward into the New Year, I urge all Honourable Members to join me in promoting road safety awareness in our province, and to remind their constituents that it’s not just alcohol that impairs.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

2014 12 02                           1:55 p.m.