Manitoba government introduces stiffer penalties for impaired drivers

The Manitoba government is increasing sanctions for impaired drivers, including longer short-term driver’s licence suspensions. The changes to the Highway Traffic Act take effect on Aug. 15. They include the following, immediate tiered suspensions:•24 hours for a first violation of operating a motor vehicle, boat, train or plane with a blood alcohol concentration of .05 to .08 or failing a physical co-ordination test;•15 days for a second violation;•30 days for a third violation; or•60 days for a fourth or subsequent violation.The window for determining a repeat violator will increase to 10 years from three years.