RCMP and ICBC will partner across Vancouver Island through the summer for the CounterAttack campaign, focusing on distracted drivers heading out for the first time after the pandemic. (submitted photo/ICBC)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

DISTRACTED DRIVING

Summer CounterAttack campaign ramps up amid peak tourist season

Jul 23, 2021 | 2:26 PM

NANAIMO — Local police are set to be out in full force on area roads through the rest of the summer months, targeting impaired drivers.

The annual summer CounterAttack campaign began at the end of June, focusing on getting alcohol or drug impaired drivers off the road.

Caroline Robinson from ICBC’s road safety delivery team told NanaimoNewsNOW, 11 people die on average every year in over 600 impaired driving-related crashes on Vancouver Island.

“There are ongoing issues with impaired issues on our roads…that’s really why you’re going to see an increased police presence really reminding everyone…to make sure you have a safe way to get home.”

An additional 300 people are injured in impaired driving crashes on the Island each year.

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While CounterAttack traditionally targets alcohol and drug impairment, there will also be ongoing checks for cell phone use or other means of driving distracted.

Robinson said as the warmer months roll on and more people begin to venture out, messaging about impaired driving becomes more and more important to get out.

“If everybody does their part, take care of each other when you’re out there, have a designated driver, stay overnight, take a cab and do whatever you need to do to make sure everyone can get home safely.”

Neither Nanaimo RCMP or BC Highway Services were able to comment on specific resources devoted to CounterAttack, or locations they will be at in the near future.

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