The bad news for people who travel frequently or are planning a vacation is that an impaired driving/DUI conviction will transfer from province to province, meaning that you are prohibited from driving anywhere in Canada until your license is reinstated.
Under the Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) program in Alberta, drivers who have consumed alcohol or drugs and are over the limit or impaired while operating a vehicle (IRS: FAIL) will receive an automatic 90-day administrative penalty under the Traffic Safety Act.
Under the terms of the IRS program, drivers who are considered impaired in the opinion of a police officer may receive an immediate license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and fine. They are not required to appear in court unless subsequently charged with a criminal offence.
Whether you’ve been charged with DUI and need to know what could happen if you’re convicted or you want to be prepared if you’re stopped while driving home after a drink, it’s essential to understand the impaired driving laws and potential penalties in Alberta.
Instead of most cases ending up in the Alberta courts, the majority of people accused of impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs now escape a criminal charge unless aggravating factors are involved—but other penalties imposed under the Traffic Safety Act begin immediately at the roadside with a suspension and vehicle impoundment.
In Canada, a DUI conviction will remain on your criminal record indefinitely unless you apply for a pardon and record suspension. Even then, it may be visible to some authorities. A permanent criminal record can impact many areas of your life and the consequences should not be underestimated.
A DUI conviction in Alberta can saddle you with a lifelong criminal record that affects many aspects of your life.
A DUI conviction in Alberta can saddle you with a lifelong criminal record that affects many aspects of your life.
FAQs What Is the Minimum Penalty for a First Offence of Impaired Driving in Alberta? The impaired driving laws in Alberta are harsh but, under new laws passed in December 2020, some leniency is shown toward first-time
FAQs Will I Go to Jail for DUI in Canada? If you are convicted of impaired driving in Canada (or DUI as it’s often known) the consequences can include jail time—but this is likely only under specific circumstances
During your free consultation, we will discuss the allegations, possible outcomes, defences to the charges and legal fees. We will also create a clear path moving forward so you completely understand what to expect.