Canada's insurers welcome Newfoundland and Labrador efforts to crack down on impaired driving
HALIFAX, March 2, 2017 /CNW/ - Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) congratulates the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for announcing legislation to make changes to the Highway Traffic Act. The proposed changes would crack down on impaired driving and introduce stiffer penalties for this serious crime.
"IBC fully supports the government's proposed changes and we welcome this fantastic announcement," said Amanda Dean, Vice President, Atlantic, IBC. "Impaired driving takes far too many lives and it's something that can be easily avoided. Property and casualty insurers are committed to working with governments across Canada to reduce impaired driving and to keep our roads safe for everyone. This is an important step and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is to be commended for this legislation."
According to the government, the proposed amendments would expand the province's vehicle impoundment program. Specifically, it would make it mandatory for a police officer to order the vehicle of an impaired driver to be impounded immediately. The proposed changes would also include the introduction of a mandatory ignition interlock program as a condition for a convicted driver's licence reinstatement. Further, drivers who are younger than 22 years of age will be required to maintain a blood alcohol content of zero per cent. This would give young drivers the opportunity to form good driving habits that separate alcohol consumption from driving.
"IBC is encouraging all MHAs to support these important changes," added Dean. "Our industry will keep working with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to help reduce this senseless, dangerous, and completely avoidable crime."
About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.
P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 120,000 Canadians, pays $9 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $49 billion.
For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Atlantic or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1‑844‑2ask-IBC.
If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.
SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada
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