As British Columbia enforces strict impaired driving laws, the province's transportation department says it is now closely watching the progress in B.C. to see if Alberta should head down the same path.
Drivers in B.C. with a blood reading above .08 will receive an immediate 90-day driving ban, a mandatory ignition interlock systems, and have to pay fees adding up to more than $4,000.
Motorists caught within the warning range of .05 and .08 will see a three to 30-day licence suspension and costs related to the offence can range from $600 to close to $4,000.
And additional penalties some drivers could face include having their vehicle impounded, paying towing fees, and in some cases, undergoing responsible driver education.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving say Alberta needs to implement the same strict laws to deter impaired driving in our region.
"We really want to see this in Alberta, we know it would make a change," said MADD Canada National President Denise Dubyk.
And Edmonton's police chief agrees.
"I think any legislation that we can introduce or the government can introduce that police can be involved in the enforcement of that will address or work towards diminishing the problem will be helpful," said Mike Boyd.
Officials at Alberta Transportation say Transportation Minister Luke Ouellette is watching the progress in B.C. to see if the stiff laws are effective and if they should be applied here.
Since B.C. adopted the new laws in September 20th, almost 1,300 immediate roadside prohibitions have been issued.
With files from Sonia Sunger
