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News release

Speeding motorist serves up weak excuse for impaired driving

March 24, 2026 - North Vancouver, British Columbia
From: North Vancouver RCMP

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A North Vancouver driver has been arrested after refusing to provide a breath sample following a series of reckless driving behaviours observed on Marine Drive.

On March 20, 2026, at approximately 1:20 a.m., a front line North Vancouver RCMP officer was conducting routine patrols near Marine Drive and Garden Avenue when he witnessed a grey Honda Civic incorrectly travelling eastbound in the westbound lanes. The vehicle continued at excessive speeds, reaching up to 120 km/h while running red lights and swerving across lanes.

The officer was eventually able to catch up to the Honda after the driver slowed for a red light at Marine Drive and Bewicke Avenue.. During the traffic stop, officers observed clear signs of impairment and initiated an impaired driving investigation. After being read the Approved Screening Device demand, the driver refused to provide a breath sample.

The driver was arrested for refusing to comply with a lawful demand and issued a 90 day Immediate Roadside Prohibition. He was also ticketed for excessive speed and driving without consideration, resulting in more than $1,000 in fines, in addition to vehicle impound fees associated with the driving prohibition.

“This was a cascade of escalating recklessness,” said Corporal Mansoor Sahak, Media Relations Officer for the North Vancouver RCMP. “It is bad enough that someone would drink and drive, but it is that much worse when they put the lives of other people at risk. The driver’s alleged excuse for drinking and driving was that he is a bartender and had to test the drinks, which is not only irresponsible but incredibly dangerous.”

The Price of Impaired Driving

B.C. has the toughest drinking and driving laws in Canada. If you’re caught driving impaired, you could face these penalties:

  • Driving suspensions from 24 hours to 90 days
  • Vehicle impoundment
  • Fines, from $600 and up to $4,060
  • Jail time
  • Mandatory rehabilitation
  • Installation of ignition interlock in your vehicle

You may also have to pay a Driver Risk Premium, on top of your insurance, and if you crash while driving impaired, you're likely in breach of your insurance policy. That means you could be personally responsible for 100 per cent of the costs if you damage someone else's property or injure them.

 

North Vancouver RCMP Media Relations Unit

Office: (604) 969-7321

Cell: (778) 228-1619

Email: Nvmedia@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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