OPP officials say: The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), in partnership with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) kicked-off the Provincial Festive R.I.D.E. campaign today, which will be implemented by police services across Ontario during the holiday season.
The annual campaign promotes traffic enforcement and raises awareness about the many dangers associated with alcohol- and drug-impaired driving.
The event in Oakville included police services and campaign supporters dedicated to promoting safe driving throughout Ontario this holiday season.
Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs continues to be the leading contributing factor in serious road collisions in Canada. Police services and their community partners are urging drivers not to drive if they have consumed drugs or alcohol that might impair their ability to safely operate a vehicle.
In Ontario, one in three roadway fatalities involves impaired driving.
A 2022 roadside survey 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.
R.I.D.E. programs remain an important part of road safety as they are a visible reminder to motorists to not drive impaired. All young drivers, novice drivers and commercial drivers are required by law to have zero presence of alcohol and/or drugs in their system while driving.
Road safety is a collective responsibility. As such, we encourage community members to commit to:
– Planning and arranging for a designated driver or public transportation
– Offering a sober ride to a friend who has been drinking or consuming drugs
– Calling 9-1-1 to report suspected impaired drivers
– Enjoying responsibly
