2009 RoadSmart reports

The reports are written in news release format so that media outlets can use the information verbatim if they wish.

Setting straight .08

SGI reminds motorists that even if they are caught driving with a blood alcohol level below .08, they can receive a driver's licence suspension.

It's the holiday season and time for celebrating with family and friends. While these special events present opportunities for individuals to drink and drive, everyone needs to make responsible choices.

"There's a common misconception that as long as a person's blood alcohol level stays below .08, they're not breaking any laws and won't face any penalties, if caught driving. This belief, however, is simply false," says Phyllis Glowatsky, Manager of Driver Programs. "In fact, new drivers caught driving after consuming any amount of alcohol will receive at least a 30-day roadside suspension and experienced drivers caught driving with a blood alcohol level above .04 will also face penalties."

The length of the roadside suspension will depend on whether the person is a new or experienced driver.

New drivers - that is, drivers who are currently in the Graduated Driver's Licensing (GDL) program - caught driving after consuming any amount of alcohol will receive an immediate 30-day roadside suspension and be required to take a Driving Without Impairment (DWI) course within 90 days. For subsequent occurrences, they will receive an immediate 30-day suspension - which will subsequently be extended to a 90-day suspension - and will be required to complete addiction screening and an education or recovery program before getting their licence back.

Experienced drivers will receive an immediate 24-hour roadside suspension if caught driving with a blood alcohol level above .04. For a second occurrence, they will receive an immediate 24-hour roadside suspension - which will subsequently be extended to 15 days - and be required to complete a DWI course within 90 days.

For any further occurrences, experienced drivers will receive an immediate 24-hour roadside suspension - which will subsequently be extended 90 days - and will be required to complete addiction screening and an education or recovery program.

"Any driver who fails or refuses to do Standard Field Sobriety Test, which tests for alcohol and drug impairments, will also receive an immediate 24-hour roadside suspension," says Glowatsky.

There are more severe penalties for individuals caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or more, such as statutory licence suspensions and Criminal Code suspensions. These types of driver's licence suspensions can range from one year to five years or more in length, depending on the driver's history.

You can review information on roadside suspensions or other types of driver's licence suspensions or contact Driver Programs at 306-775-6900.