Manitoba is introducing a new penalty that will force impaired drivers to bear the financial burden of collision damages they cause to other vehicles and property.
Effective August 1, drivers found to be under the influence at the time of an accident will be ineligible to receive third-party liability coverage from Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI).
The scope of the new penalty encompasses all motor vehicles, including off-road vehicles.
“Too many Manitobans each and every year are impacted by drinking and driving,” said Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen at a news conference held Tuesday.
“Even when other people aren't involved in making an incident dealing with drinking and driving, there can be a loss to property and other damage. Denying this third-party liability coverage is the latest penalty that we are introducing.”
Data from MPI found that approximately 25% of fatal collisions that occurred in the province between 2016 and 2022 involved impaired drivers, resulting in an average of 26 deaths annually. This year, seven fatalities have been attributed to impaired driving incidents.
Board chair Ward Keith said MPI will continue to cover repair costs incurred by impaired drivers, but this will be reimbursed by the responsible party.
Impaired drivers were already denied coverage for damages to their own vehicles under the existing policies, and Keith said the new penalty adds an extra deterrent against driving under the influence.
“We are sending a clear message that impaired driving is unacceptable in our province. If you drink or use drugs, simply do not drive,” he said.
Impaired drivers must have a criminal conviction or roadside prohibition to be subject to the new penalty. Even if the collision occurs outside Manitoba’s borders, drivers remain under the province’s jurisdiction and are liable for all associated damage costs, including bodily injuries.
The implementation of this rule will not affect access to personal injury benefits for Manitoba drivers, Keith explained, but individuals found to be under the influence at the time of an accident will continue to receive reduced benefits.
Moreover, MPI will have the authority to refuse the renewal of driver’s licenses, vehicle insurance, and registration until impaired drivers fully pay for the damages they caused.
The insurer will also accommodate those who cannot afford to pay in a lump sum by arranging a longer repayment period, according to Keith.
“Simply put, there is no valid reason for any Manitoban to drive while impaired,” he said further.
Earlier this month, the Crown corporation published an observational study that identified speeding as a critical factor in fatal accidents on Manitoban roads.
“MPI data has consistently shown us that speed is a contributing factor in almost 20% of all fatal collisions annually and this latest study tells us that remains a common and risky habit for many drivers,” said chief customer officer Satvir Jatana.
Responding to these findings, MPI has indicated plans to launch a new electronic speed display sign program this fall. MPI will be providing electronic speed display signs to municipalities and First Nations under the program.
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