Switching seats won’t save you from impaired driving charges

August 12, 2026 - View Royal, British Columbia
From: West Shore RCMP

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File 2026-15379

On August 8, 2026, at approximately 2:45 a.m., West Shore RCMP Frontline officers responded to a report of a black Toyota Corolla being driven erratically near Admirals Road and Island Highway in View Royal.

A complainant reported that the vehicle was swerving out of its lane before striking a median on Island Highway. The complainant then observed the male driver switch seats with the female passenger, after which the vehicle continued driving.

Police attended the area and located the vehicle, conducting a traffic stop. The occupants were identified as a 26-year-old male and a 39-year-old female.

Officers observed signs of alcohol impairment in both occupants. As both had recently been driving the vehicle, police demanded a breath sample from each.

The female provided a breath sample that resulted in a WARN, and she was issued a three-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition.

The male provided a breath sample that resulted in a FAIL, and he was issued a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition.

The vehicle was also impounded for 30 days.

“Switching seats doesn’t erase what happened behind the wheel,” says Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations. “Impaired driving is dangerous regardless of who is sitting in the driver’s seat when police arrive. We’re grateful to the complainant for making that call and giving our officers the opportunity to intervene.”

So far in 2026 West Shore RCMP officers have taken 108 impaired drivers off the road. 42 of which were caught in the summer months between June -August. 

Officers regularly conduct roadblocks and patrols targeting impaired driving. Please plan ahead for a safe ride home. 

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