When attempts to talk an RCMP officer out of impounding his car failed, a driver took another tack: he tried to prevent the tow truck driver from taking his car away.
"He really didn’t want his vehicle impounded," North Vancouver RCMP Sgt. Peter DeVries said. "Obviously he wasn’t going to get what he wanted but he couldn’t see far enough in the future to realize that. Alcohol can do that."
The incident took place over the Labour Day weekend as part of RCMP traffic enforcement. Not only is the driver of the four-door Audi facing impaired driving charges but, after refusing to leave the scene and trying to stop his car from being towed, he was also charged with causing a disturbance. The RCMP also anticipate recommending charges to B.C. Prosecution Service in the near future as its investigation continues.
The silver-gray Audi was one of three cars impounded over the holiday weekend.
"By definition, drivers who are considered impaired under criminal or provincial law represent a cavalier disregard for the safety of other people," DeVries said. "The fact we continue to find them is an ongoing reminder that we can’t let up. We will continue to work hard to stop them from putting everyone else in danger."
There were, however, no alcohol-related accidents, he added.
"People only need one rule," said DeVries. "If you plan to drink, then please, plan not to drive."
Penalties for impaired driving
Impaired drivers can be charged under the Criminal Code of Canada with a criminal offence, or they can be served with an Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP) under the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act. If an officer has reasonable grounds to believe a driver is under the influence of alcohol, they can use an Approved Screening Device (ASD) to determine a driver’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC).
• Pass (BAC of 0-0.049) = no penalty unless you are in the Graduated Licensing Program in which any blood alcohol can lead to a 24-hour prohibition
• Warn (BAC of 0.05-0.79) = driver’s licence seized, vehicle may be impounded, fees and penalties vary depending on if it is the first, second or third incident
• Fail (BAC of 0.08 or higher) or refusal/fail to provide breath sample = 90-day IRP where licence is seized, vehicle impounded and you must pay several fees, or police may proceed by way of a Criminal Code charge.
