The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have announced the implementation of mandatory alcohol screenings during traffic stops in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This new measure, which came into effect on April 1st, aims to reduce impaired driving and promote road safety.
According to the OPP, this decision was made in response to the alarming number of impaired driving incidents in the GTA. In 2020 alone, there were over 1,000 impaired driving charges laid by the OPP in the region. This number is concerning, especially considering the potential consequences of impaired driving, including injury and death.
Under the new policy, all drivers who are lawfully stopped by the OPP in the GTA will be required to provide a breath sample, regardless of whether or not there is suspicion of impairment. This means that even if a driver does not exhibit any signs of impairment, they will still be subject to a breathalyzer test.
The OPP has emphasized that this measure is not meant to target responsible drivers, but rather to deter and catch those who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol. The goal is to create a safer environment for all road users and to prevent tragedies caused by impaired driving.
Some have raised concerns about the potential for racial profiling and discrimination with this new policy. However, the OPP has assured the public that officers will be trained to conduct these screenings in a fair and unbiased manner. Additionally, the results of the breathalyzer tests will not be used as evidence in court, unless there is other evidence of impairment.
The mandatory alcohol screenings are in line with the federal government’s Bill C-46, which allows police officers to conduct random breath tests on drivers. This legislation was passed in 2018 and has been implemented in other provinces, including British Columbia and Quebec.
The OPP is confident that this new measure will have a positive impact on road safety in the GTA. They urge all drivers to plan ahead and make responsible choices when it comes to consuming alcohol and getting behind the wheel.
In conclusion, the OPP’s decision to implement mandatory alcohol screenings during traffic stops in the GTA is a proactive step towards reducing impaired driving and promoting road safety. It is a reminder to all drivers to prioritize the safety of themselves and others on the road.
