WINNIPEG

Tougher penalties for impaired driving in Manitoba now in effect

The Canadian Press

Published Monday, December 16, 2019 6:42AM CST Last Updated Tuesday, December 17, 2019 8:10AM CST

A new poll shows that 25 per cent of Canadians between the ages of 35 and 54 say they have increased the amount of alcohol they drink while at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Text:

WINNIPEG -- Tougher sanctions for impaired driving in Manitoba take effect Monday.

Under the new rules, drivers who register a "warn" on a screening device will automatically lose their vehicle for three days and be hit with fines and administrative costs that total $700 for a first violation.

A "warn" reading comes when a person's blood-alcohol level ranges between .05 to .079 -- just under the legal impaired limit.

Justice Minister Cliff Cullen says law enforcement will still have the option to proceed with criminal charges rather than the immediate roadside prohibition approach when they feel it is warranted.