For many people, Labour Day weekend is a great time to kick back, relax and partake in various celebrations. It’s a wonderful time of year to unwind after an eventful summer; however IBAO wants to caution drivers of the dangers of driving while under the influence this long weekend.
Did you know that the average number of drinking drivers involved in fatal crashes during the summer months is about 70 percent higher than other times of the year?
Once again, IBAO and the Ontario Students Against Impaired Driving (OSAID) want to caution Ontarian teens especially to drive safe and sober this Labour Day weekend and spread the message on how tragic vehicle accidents can be avoided.
In Ontario alone, 235 drivers age 21 and under were killed in drinking and driving collisions between 1996 and 2006.
IBAO CEO Randy Carroll says that, "Ontario insurance brokers have a vested interest in serving communities across the province and keeping our neighbourhoods safe.Through our partnership with OSAID, we are committed to providing Ontario students with the necessary knowledge and information required to make wiser decisions when it comes to their transportation options."
Let’s not forget that our Ontario students are about to begin a new year of school and this long weekend is often a tempting time for new students to participate in hazardous activity. A few tips you can give your teens are to:
• Arrange for a designated driver;
• Take public transit;
• Arrange for a car or limo service;
• Call a cab.
New tough driving penalties for young and new drivers were put into effect by the Ontario government on August 1st. This new legislation states that all young drivers under the age of 21 and new motorists will be required to have a zero blood alcohol level when behind the wheel.
The hard consequences associated with the new legislation include an immediate 24-hour licence suspension , 30-day licence suspension and up to $500 in fines.
Stay safe and have fun this Labour Day long weekend!