It’s sad that it must be said every year.
It’s also sad that the message doesn’t seem to get through.
The topic: Drinking and driving.
Every year, in nearly every community, an editorial or two will run in the local papers, pleading with the masses not to drink and drive.
And every year, in nearly every community, at least one incident will be reported of a motor vehicle collision that could have been avoided had alcohol not been involved.
Far too often, that incident will have tragic results. Families will be destroyed. All for the sake of saving $20.
“I just live around the corner.”
“I don’t want to leave my car at the bar.”
“I need my vehicle in the morning.”
“I don’t have money for a cab.”
All excuses police have heard before. None of them legitimate.
The Comox Valley RCMP have started their Christmas season crackdown, promising to be ever-vigilant in catching the drunk drivers. But those who do it know the odds are in their favour. It’s sad to think that people will consider getting behind the wheel after a night of drinking, despite the nearly daily reports of deaths caused from such acts.
According to Statistics Canada, impaired driving is the leading cause of criminal death in the country. Higher than homicide.
Let that sink in for a minute.
The leading cause of criminal death in Canada is also so easily preventable. There are so many other options available.
But, as preventable as it is, there will be deaths at the hands of drunk drivers this holiday season. Maybe not in Courtenay; perhaps not in the Comox Valley. But nearby.
And people will be adversely affected. Families will be destroyed.
So, before picking up those keys at the end of the staff Christmas party, or at the end of the night out with friends, keep this in mind: Someone’s family will be destroyed by a drunk driver this Christmas season.
Don’t let it be yours.