THUNDER BAY, ON – The Thunder Bay Police Service is raising alarm over a concerning spike in impaired driving incidents, with 10 drivers arrested on impaired driving charges between August 10 and August 20, 2024.
Notable Incidents:
Brock Street and Ford Street (August 20):
At approximately 7:50 a.m., Thunder Bay Police responded to a collision involving two vehicles, one of which flipped onto its side. A 37-year-old Thunder Bay woman was arrested and charged with Dangerous Operation of a Vehicle, Impaired Operation of a Vehicle, Operation of a Vehicle while Prohibited, and Failure to Comply with a Probation Order.
Wardrope Avenue and Balsam Street (August 18):
Just before 1:30 a.m., a vehicle crashed into a wooded area off the roadway. The driver, a 32-year-old Thunder Bay man, was arrested and charged with Impaired Operation of a Vehicle and Operation of a Motor Vehicle While Impaired – Blood Alcohol Concentration (80 plus).
Academy Drive and Balmoral Street (August 16):
At around 7 p.m., a single vehicle collided with a utility pole. The driver, who attempted to flee the scene, was later apprehended in a nearby parking lot. A 30-year-old Thunder Bay man faces charges of Impaired Operation of a Vehicle, Dangerous Operation of a Vehicle, and Refusal to Comply with a Demand.
Donald Street and Selkirk Street (August 11):
Around 8:15 p.m., a collision involving multiple vehicles occurred, with one car striking a parked vehicle. A 32-year-old man from Marten Falls First Nation was arrested and charged with Impaired Operation of a Vehicle, Operation of a Motor Vehicle While Impaired – Blood Alcohol Concentration (80 plus), Dangerous Operation of a Vehicle, and Breach of Probation (2 counts).
Summit Avenue and Memorial Avenue (August 10):
Officers were dispatched after reports of an impaired driver. Two people, a 29-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman from Webequie First Nation, were arrested after both attempted to drive the same vehicle while impaired. They each face charges of Impaired Operation of a Vehicle and Operation of a Motor Vehicle While Impaired – Blood Alcohol Concentration (80 plus).
The Costs and Consequences of Impaired Driving:
Driving under the influence is not only dangerous but also comes with severe legal and financial consequences. In Ontario, an impaired driving charge can lead to:
- Immediate License Suspension: Upon arrest, your driver’s license can be suspended on the spot.
- Hefty Fines: Convicted drivers face fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Criminal Record: An impaired driving conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment opportunities and travel.
- Vehicle Impoundment: Your vehicle can be impounded for up to 7 days.
- Increased Insurance Costs: Expect a significant hike in insurance premiums, sometimes up to three times your current rate.
Tips to Avoid Impaired Driving:
- Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be drinking, arrange for a designated driver, call a taxi, or use a rideshare service.
- Stay Over: If you’re at a gathering, consider staying overnight instead of risking a drive home.
- Alternate Transportation: Use public transportation as a safe alternative.
- Be a Responsible Host: If hosting a party, ensure your guests have safe transportation options or a place to stay.
Report Impaired Drivers:
If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, report it immediately. You can save lives by calling 9-1-1.
