Drunk Driving in 2021 Exceeds 2020, 2019 Figures: Manitoba – Winnipeg RCMP | The Canadian News

The Manitoba RCMP said that drunk driving has increased compared to the previous two years.

The numbers come as statistics released earlier this year show that drunk driving offenses were on track to exceed 2020 numbers.

The Manitoba RCMP reported a total of 1,848 Penal Code violations and immediate road suspensions related to drunk driving this year as of December 17. That figure stood at 1,738 for 2020 and 1,843 for 2019.

The lower numbers in 2020 may be due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistics Canada says that between February 2020 and 2021, law enforcement services across the country reported a 14 percent decrease in charges for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

Charges for driving while intoxicated causing bodily injury or death were also reduced by 33 percent, according to the report.

During this time period, people were encouraged to stay home and were also under numerous closures to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

No holiday check stop campaign, again

While Manitoba’s RCMP has canceled its vacation check stop again this year due to concerns about the pandemic, the mounted are making it clear that they will patrol the roads 24 hours a day.

They also encourage anyone who may see a dangerous or disabled driver to call 911 immediately.

1:57The return of the Christmas holidays raises more concerns about drunk driving