Simply put, the United States can learn much about drunk driving regulations from Canada. In 2018, the Province of British Columbia implemented a new law changing the limit of blood-alcohol content (BAC) to 0.05. Remarkably, since that time, officials from the province have confirmed an estimated 40% drop in alcohol-related fatal vehicle crashes and a 21% drop in automobile crashes and (even more incredibly) a complete drop in hospital admissions and ambulance calls related to alcohol-caused crashes. Ultimately, when the Canadian province aimed to take control of the roads and drunk driving, the results exceeded expectations. Let’s take a closer look at how British Columbia is taking a stand against drunk driving.
Ambulance Calls and Admission Are Down
According to the 2018 reports from the University of British Columbia, the amount of automobile crashes has dropped by 21% since the new regulation was put into play, and hospital admissions and ambulance calls related to drunk driving incidences dropped by 8% and 7.2% (respectively). Overall, these numbers indicate an 84% drop in motor vehicle accidents, as well as 308 less admissions into hospitals and 2,553 less calls for ambulances due to drunk driving.
Although the new laws were deemed “controversial,” Jeffrey Brubacher (lead author of this study) explained that the changes to the BAC limit have improved road safety and public safety overall. Overall, he is hopeful that other provinces will follow suit.
What Are the Penalties?
Back in 2010, the newer laws about drunk driving were passed in British Columbia, and, in 2011, one of Brubacher’s studies confirmed a staggering 40% drop in fatal crashes and a 23% drop in accidents (in general) related to alcohol use. Now, as part of the initial changes, first-time offenders (those people will a BAD of 0.05 to 0.08) will face a 3-day suspension of a driver’s license and a fine of $600 CAD. Likewise, the arresting officer could approve the vehicle to be impounded for 3 days.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Always remember that alcohol and drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
