Vancouver – Vancouver Police are reminding drivers to plan a safe ride home this holiday season, as officers launch their annual impaired driving CounterAttack campaign.

“December marks the start of the festive season, and a lot of people will be heading out to social functions where alcohol and drugs may be consumed,” says Sergeant Steve Addison. “Drivers could be stopped anywhere at any time for a sobriety test, and anyone found driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could have their vehicle impounded and face criminal charges.”

VPD formally kicks off the CounterAttack campaign Saturday night, with roving roadchecks throughout the city that are staffed by officers with special training to detect impaired drivers. If you’re stopped at a CounterAttack road check, you may be asked to show your licence and participate in a roadside test if an officer believes you have alcohol or drugs in your system.

“The vast majority of drivers act responsibly, either by planning a ride home or choosing a designated driver who hasn’t consumed alcohol or drugs,” adds Sergeant Addison. “Unfortunately, some impaired drivers still don’t plan ahead and think they can avoid getting caught. That behaviour puts lives at risk, and we’ll be taking a zero-tolerance approach with anyone who drives while impaired.”

Police have authority to immediately suspend an impaired driver’s licence from 12 hours to 90 days, depending on the person’s driving record and level of impairment, and vehicles could be impounded up to 30 days. More serious cases could result in criminal charges and even longer driving suspensions.

CounterAttack road blocks are a partnership between VPD and the Insurance Corporation of B.C.

Anyone who suspects an impaired driver should call 9-1-1 immediately.