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jeff hodson/metro vancouver
Ian Marples, general counsel for Alcohol Countermeasures Systems, demonstrates the ignition interlock system.
Beginning in February, people convicted of drinking and driving in B.C. will have prove they’re sober each time they get behind the wheel by using dash-mounted breathalyzers.
The ignition interlock system, introduced as a trial in 2005, has been installed in 300 vehicles in B.C.
“We believe this is a good move to improve public safety on our highways,” said Solicitor General John van Dongen.
“It is another form of accountability for people who have demonstrated that they are prone to drinking and driving.”
The new program will be mandatory for anyone convicted of impaired driving after Feb. 1 or anyone who receives two 90-day driving prohibition or three 24-hour roadside suspensions. It could impact 4,000 drivers annually.
The program is not retroactive. The Superintendent of Motor Vehicles, however, still has the power to force repeat drunk drivers to take part.
The ignition interlock system, introduced as a trial in 2005, has been installed in 300 vehicles in B.C.
“We believe this is a good move to improve public safety on our highways,” said Solicitor General John van Dongen.
“It is another form of accountability for people who have demonstrated that they are prone to drinking and driving.”
The new program will be mandatory for anyone convicted of impaired driving after Feb. 1 or anyone who receives two 90-day driving prohibition or three 24-hour roadside suspensions. It could impact 4,000 drivers annually.
The program is not retroactive. The Superintendent of Motor Vehicles, however, still has the power to force repeat drunk drivers to take part.
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