BY KELLY ROCHE
Thirty-five people have died in Ontario this year due to drugged drivers causing 59 crashes, say OPP as the annual Festive RIDE campaign launches Monday.
“The solution to ending impaired-related road deaths is a simple one. Never drive if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs and know that you are doing the right thing by calling 911 to report an impaired driver,” said OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair.
“By working together, we can positively influence driver behaviour in an effort to make sober, drug-free driving a social norm during the holidays and throughout the year.”
“The solution to ending impaired-related road deaths is a simple one. Never drive if you are impaired by alcohol or drugs and know that you are doing the right thing by calling 911 to report an impaired driver,” said OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair.
“By working together, we can positively influence driver behaviour in an effort to make sober, drug-free driving a social norm during the holidays and throughout the year.”
Roughly 65 crashes in 2015 were caused by drug-impairment, police add.
RIDE stands for Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere; OPP have officers specially trained as drug recognition evaluators to detect drug-impaired drivers.
Police are aiming to dispel the myth that driving while high can’t be exposed by investigators and is a safe alternative to drunk driving.
Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services David Orazietti is urging residents to plan ahead.
“Arrange for a designated driver and if you see someone you think is impaired, arrange a ride for them or suggest alternate arrangements. These simple steps can go a long way to keeping our families, friends, and roads safe every day of the year,” said Orazietti.
The Festive RIDE program ends Jan. 7.
QUICK FACTS
- As of October 2, 2016, Ontario legislation carries penalties for drug-impaired driving that match those already in place for alcohol-impaired drivers.
- Illegal drugs aren’t the only drugs that can impair one’s ability to drive and result in losing your licence.
- A warn range suspension can be issued to drivers whose Blood Alcohol Concentration falls within the 0.05 to 0.08 range.
(Source: Ontario Provincial Police)
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