SGI's safety focus in January was on an issue that is all too prevalent in Saskatchewan. Many accidents and deaths result from drinking and driving, and although it's too early to easily determine patterns, the tougher legislation that was introduced at the beginning of this year is hoped to have assisted in the attempt to curb this risky habit.

"There are just too many impaired driving related collisions and tragedies in the province," related SGI Media Relations Manager Tyler McMurchy.

"Saskatchewan law enforcement in January put additional focus on impaired driving enforcement, and as a result we saw 269 people charged with exceeding .08 blood alcohol level or refusing to provide a breath sample and seven people charged with having a blood alcohol content between .04 and .08."

He noted that the results could vary depending on law enforcement presence in the different regions.

Has the safety spotlight made a difference? 

"It's really early to see if people's behavior is changing. Anecdotally, however, you may have heard your friends say that they need to be more careful about their consumption when they go out, or comment that they won't risk it at all with the new laws making .04 BAC result in a vehicle impoundment."

"We know that changing conduct is a result of not just enforcement, but awareness as well, so we are doing the best we can to promote the knowledge of the new legislation, as well as of the devastating and lifelong consequences that impact those who are involved in this type of collision," McMurchy added.

"Far too many people die as a result of impaired driving in this province, and that absolutely needs to change," he expressed in conclusion.