The lights are strung, the sales are on, Santa is magically appearing in public places throughout the Valley, listening to wish lists; yes, the Christmas season is upon us.
With the season come the parties, and, in turn, the increased alcohol consumption.
It’s a sad fact that every year, we must remind people of the alternative transportation options available in an effort to curb impaired driving. It’s a sadder fact that many people will read this and pay no heed.
The Comox Valley RCMP have begun their Christmas enforcement, which means a greater presence on the road, including impaired driving “check-stops.” If you are convicted of drinking and driving you will be in line for a hefty fine, confiscation of your driver’s licence, and a criminal record. Is the risk really worth the cost of a cab?
Preparing for a court date is no way to celebrate the holidays. Take a cab, use one of the local “ambassador” programs, have a designated driver, or stay where you are. Either that, or suffer the consequences.
Oh sure, you might beat the charge - there are plenty of lawyers willing to fight for you, at a price. But an impaired driving charge is not the worst case scenario, not by a long shot.
Lives are at stake here – yours, and those of innocent victims: the four-year-old that dies when you fall asleep at the wheel; the two children you just orphaned by t-boning their parents when you sped through that red light; the newlywed wife who just became a widow.
Sound harsh? That’s reality. People will be orphaned, crippled and widowed this Christmas season at the hands of drunk drivers. There is only one thing you can do to ensure you are not the cause of any such tragedy.
Think about it before having that third eggnog, or ordering that second bottle of wine with dinner.
Make alternative arrangements.
Let’s keep the Comox Valley safe this Christmas season.
-Black Press