ORILLIA, ON – As summer brings more locals and visitors to the scenic roads, lakes, and cottage areas of Central Ontario, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is raising alarms about the rising number of impaired drivers endangering lives on our roads and waterways.
As of August 6, 2024, the Central Region OPP has laid 1,496 impaired-related charges, with the number continuing to climb as the warm weather draws more people outdoors.
Preventing impaired driving is probably the easiest criminal activity to prevent. Having responsible hosts, a designated driver, making the decision to leave the car or truck or boat as “alcohol free” zones, and simply not being foolish all could eliminate this often deadly and always expensive crime from happening.
The OPP maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards impaired driving, whether it involves alcohol or drugs. Drivers caught operating a vehicle while impaired face immediate and severe consequences under the Criminal Code of Canada. Those convicted may:
- Face a jail sentence
- Lose their driver’s license
- Have their vehicle impounded
- Be required to pay administrative monetary penalties
- Be mandated to attend an education or treatment program
- Be fined upon conviction
- Be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle
- End up with a criminal record
The OPP urges everyone to take impaired driving seriously and understand the gravity of its consequences. If you suspect someone is driving while impaired, call 9-1-1 immediately. Your actions could save a life.
