THUNDER BAY -- Ten per cent of motorists the Ontario Provincial Police have charged with drinking and driving in December have been in Northwestern Ontario.
OPP Northwest has conducted 900 RIDE checks this month between Marathon and Kenora to lay over 35 charges. The OPP has charged a total of 350 people with driving and drug offences while operating motor vehicles over the same period.
"It's probably higher than usual. People aren't getting the message," said Northwest OPP Staff Sgt. Dan Peters.
"They can be charged with impaired driving, either by drug or by alcohol. If someone try cannabis and then go driving, we do have the means to lay charges in that case. We will suspend your licence immediately. We will impound your vehicle."
Peters said the police will be setting up RIDE programs in rural areas and highways throughout the region on New Year's Eve to complement the urban efforts of the Thunder Bay Police Service.
He suggested those intending to be consuming drugs or alcohol designate a driver before the evening begins. If that plan should fail, ride shares, taxis and volunteer driving programs are available to ensure a safe ride home.
"Enjoy yourself but be safe. We're out there to enforce the law and make it safe for all the motoring public. If you decide you're going to break the law, we will have police officers out in full force," Peters said.
"We want to remind people to be safe."
