Wrong-way driver alleged to be impaired

Apr 4, 2018 | 12:47 PM

VERNON — A Vernon man has a court date today after allegedly driving into oncoming traffic and forcing numerous cars off the road.

Police say they received multiple 9-1-1 calls Sunday afternoon around 5 p.m. about a vehicle driving erratically and into on-coming traffic on 25th Avenue, near 43rd Street.

Officers attended and found a blue SUV had gone off the road hitting a light pole, causing extensive damage to the vehicle and pole.

“The attending officer entered into an impaired driving investigation after the driver displayed notable signs and symptoms of alcohol intoxication. The investigator subsequently arrested the driver for impaired operation of a motor vehicle and provided him with a breath demand.”

The driver was treated for minor injuries and then taken to the RCMP detachment where he refused to provide a breath sample.

Brett says officers later determined the man was prohibited from driving Canada wide.

“Several separate witnesses called 911 to report the erratic behaviour of this driver and motorists on the road and pedestrians were lucky to not have been injured during this careless act of alleged impaired driving,” says Brett.

The suspect is scheduled to appear in court on today’s date and faces possible charges including impaired operation of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, failing to provide breath samples and driving while prohibited.