News release
Richmond RCMP Road Report: winter safety and impaired driving enforcement
December 17, 2025
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Richmond, British Columbia
From: Richmond RCMP
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Officers issued 831 traffic violation tickets last month, with December enforcement continuing with a strong focus on impaired driving.
Richmond RCMP is actively participating in the provincial Winter Impaired Driving Campaign and joined police agencies across B.C. for Light Up the Province on December 6, a high-visibility initiative led by BC Highway Patrol to deter impaired driving and keep everyone safe. Drivers can expect extra roadside checks and Mandatory Alcohol Screening throughout the season. Plan ahead for a safe ride home, because you will be stopped if you choose to drive impaired.
November enforcement snapshot
In November, Richmond RCMP issued:
- Speeding: 141
- Distracted driving: 142
- Impaired driving (drug/alcohol): 27
- Vehicle-related infractions: 165
- Driver licence infractions: 135
These figures represent our ongoing commitment to reducing high-risk behaviours on Richmond roads.
Enforcement highlights
On November 21st while conducting proactive enforcement on foot at an intersection, a Road Safety Unit (RSU) officer observed a driver using an electronic device. The vehicle and driver were directed to pull into a nearby gas station where various MVA charges were issued. The driver was also asked to provide a Mandatory Breath Sample and the driver refused. The driver was arrested for refusal to provide a sample, and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days, and the driver served a 90-day immediate roadside prohibition.
On December 6, Richmond RCMP joined Light Up the Province, a B.C.-wide impaired driving initiative led by BC Highway Patrol. Officers screened vehicles at checkpoints across the city as part of this coordinated effort involving more than 400 officers across B.C. The goal: make impaired driving checks highly visible and encourage everyone to plan ahead for a safe ride home. Of the vehicles checked, 11 resulted in alcohol related driving prohibitions ranging from 12 hours to 90 days in duration. Additional penalties included vehicle impounds for up to 30 days.
What is Mandatory Alcohol Screening?
Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS) allows police to demand a roadside breath sample from any driver lawfully stopped—without needing suspicion of impairment. This means if you are stopped for any lawful reason, such as a checkstop or traffic violation, you may be asked to provide a breath sample. Refusal or failure to provide a breath sample without a lawful excuse is a criminal offence, equivalent in penalty to impaired driving. Consequences typically include criminal charges for refusal, immediate roadside driving prohibition, vehicle impoundment, criminal record if convicted, fines, possible jail time, and a mandatory driving prohibition. MAS is proven to reduce impaired-related crashes and save lives.
Winter weather safety
Winter driving requires extra caution—and preparation. Richmond RCMP Road Safety Unit reminds all drivers that it is your responsibility to clear your entire vehicle of snow and ice before driving. Failing to do so creates hazards for you and others, and it can result in fines:
- “Insecure Cargo” – Yes, snow is considered cargo. Under BC Motor Vehicle Act Regulations Section 35.04, fines range from $173 (personal vehicle) to $288 (commercial vehicle).
- “Drive While Controls/View Obstructed” – BC MVA Section 195(1)(b), $109 fine and 2 points.
If snow or ice from your vehicle causes a collision, charges may be more serious.
Tire requirements:
- Minimum legal requirement: Mud and Snow (M+S) tires.
- Best option: Winter tires marked with the three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol.
- Tires must have at least 3.5 mm tread. Some B.C. routes require winter tires or chains. Check provincial resources:
Tips for safe winter driving:
- Remove all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, and roof before driving
- Slow down and increase following distance on wet or icy roads
- Use winter tires and check tire pressure regularly
- Keep headlights and taillights clean for visibility
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on slippery surfaces
- Keep an emergency kit stocked with the essentials, including warm clothing and a cell phone charger.
For all road users:
Pedestrians are encouraged to wear bright or reflective clothing and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Cyclists: use lights and reflective gear; watch for icy patches
Drivers: yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and be patient as conditions require extra time.
If you suspect an impaired driver, call 9-1-1. For more information on impaired driving laws and penalties, visit Driving while affected by drugs or alcohol – Province of British Columbia.
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Every crash, every death caused by impairment is 100 percent preventable. If you choose to drive impaired, you’re not just risking your own life, you’re risking everyone’s. We are out there, and you will be stopped. On behalf of the Richmond RCMP Road Safety Unit, we wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
Staff Sergeant Paula Maan, Richmond RCMP