Many have shown concern about new impaired driving laws introduced in December 2018.
Along with an increase to penalties and mandatory breath testing, police also have the authority to demand a breath sample up to two hours after you’ve been driving.
Drinking within two hours of driving could result in criminal charges if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reaches .08 or more in that period. The same goes for other impairing substances.
Constable Cappiello-Stébenne with Wood Buffalo RCMP said that an officer would need ‘reasonable suspicion’ when demanding any sample needed to make a proper analysis.
“An example of this would be an individual who was involved in a collision, left the scene and was seen entering a home or a public establishment.”
While you can refuse to give a sample, you could face a fine of $2000 or more.
According to the criminal code, police have been able to demand an evaluation up to three hours after you’ve been driving as far back as July, 2008.
The department of justice website says research suggests that up to half of drivers with a BAC above the legal limit may not be detected at check stops.
