RCMP NL plans heavy traffic enforcement presence over long May weekend

Motorists take heed! RCMP NL will be out in full force on the long May weekend.

Checkpoints will be set up at numerous locations throughout the province. In addition, RCMP Traffic Services will team up with RNC Traffic Services in areas along the Avalon Peninsula and West Coast. Officers will be equipped with roadside screening devices for alcohol, roadside drug screening equipment for cannabis and the use of standardized field sobriety testing to detect alcohol and drug impairment. In addition to the enforcement of impaired drivers, officers will target those who are driving while distracted, at high speeds, and without seatbelts, as well as other traffic violations.

Impaired and dangerous driving causes deaths and catastrophic injuries every year in Newfoundland and Labrador, which are entirely preventable. All drivers can make the choice to drive sober and safely - a choice that can mean life or death for themselves and others.

This week is also Canada Road Safety Week, with the theme Take the Wheel. Remember, as a driver you are in control of your vehicle. Make the right choice for you, your family and all others who share the roadway. Drive safe, drive sober.

The RCMP wishes everyone an enjoyable and safe long weekend.