This campaign has police out with breathalyzers to check drivers for alcohol and drug impairment.
R.I.D.E. stands for Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere and usually involves safety checkpoints in different areas to keep impaired drivers off the road. Impaired driving includes driving after consuming alcohol or drugs such as cannabis and illegal substances, among others.
Driving impaired is illegal and has serious consequences
In addition to outlining what impaired driving is, the Government of Ontario’s website provides detailed information on the associated penalties. From license suspension to fines, vehicle impoundment and even criminal charges and conviction, drivers should never get behind the wheel while impaired.
In addition, impaired driving has serious consequences on your auto insurance such as denial of payment for loss or damage to your vehicle. You can also lose accident benefits coverage.
Some facts
An article by CBC News provides the following statistics:
- One in three road deaths in Ontario involves impaired driving.
- A survey done in 2022 found that one in five drivers tested positive for drugs, alcohol or both.
- The percentage of drivers killed while under the influence of cannabis more than doubled between 2012 and 2020.
Ways to celebrate responsibly
There are a lot of reminders in the media during this time of year. We see them always – don’t drink and drive, don’t drive high – and so much more. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe on the roads:
- Don’t get behind the wheel while impaired or get in a car with an impaired driver.
- Have a plan to get home safely – have a designated driver, call a friend or family member, take public transit: bus, streetcar or subway, get a cab or rideshare.
- Stay overnight.
Get educated about impaired driving
Here are useful resources where you can learn more:
The Government of Canada : https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/talking-about-drugs/driving-impaired-drug.html
The Government of Ontario : https://www.ontario.ca/page/impaired-driving#section-3
Insurance Bureau of Canada : https://www.ibc.ca/stay-protected/road-safety/drive-safe