With the holiday season upon us, motorists throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are reminded to never drive impaired or distracted, prepare vehicles for winter driving and drive according to road conditions.

Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is illegal. Motorists are encouraged to arrange for a safe and sober drive home if planning to consume alcohol or cannabis. People are also encouraged to contact the local authorities if someone is suspected to be driving impaired. It is everyone’s responsibility to keep distracted and dangerous drivers off the roads.

Recent amendments to the Highway Traffic Act, in light of the Federal Government’s legalization of cannabis as of October 17, 2018, include:

• Zero tolerance for the presence of THC for novice drivers, drivers under age 22 and drivers of commercial vehicles and taxis as detected by a federally approved screening device;
• Seven-day vehicle impoundment for the presence of drugs for novice drivers, drivers under age 22 and drivers of commercial vehicles and taxis;
• Seven-day vehicle impoundment for all drivers exceeding the legal limit for presence of drugs;
• Thirty-day vehicle impoundment for all drivers for refusal or failure to comply with a demand, consistent with alcohol; and,
• Medical users are subject to all the same rules, with the exception of zero tolerance for under 22, novice and drivers of commercial vehicles and taxis.

In 2016, distracted driving fines were increased from $100 to $400 to the current range of $300 to $750. New penalties in effect since June 2018 for driving without due care and attention causing bodily harm or death include fines from $2,000 to $20,000, up to five year driver’s licence suspension and possible imprisonment.

To prepare for winter driving, motorists should ensure their vehicles are in good working order, check road and weather conditions before leaving, allow extra time for travelling and drive defensively.

Drivers are encouraged to use winter tires for their safety and the safety of other road users. Under the province’s Highway Traffic Act, the use of studded tires is permitted until April 30 each year. It is also important to carry an emergency kit in the vehicle when travelling on the province’s highways, especially in the winter months.

For more winter driving tips from Transport Canada, visit www.tc.gc.ca/eng/motorvehiclesafety/safevehicles-safetyfeatures-winterdriving-index-693.htm

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Media contact
Krista Dalton
Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca