The results of the annual Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign in the West Region of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have been released, showing a decline in impaired driving incidents.
According to the OPP, the Festive RIDE campaign ran from November 23, 2019 to January 2, 2020, and involved officers conducting roadside checks and sobriety tests to ensure the safety of drivers on the road during the holiday season.
The data collected from the campaign shows a decrease in impaired driving incidents compared to the previous year. In 2019, there were 1,347 impaired driving charges laid by the OPP in the West Region, which includes Brant County, Huron County, Middlesex County, Oxford County, Perth County, and Elgin County. This is a decrease from the 1,449 charges laid in 2018.
The OPP also reported a decrease in the number of impaired driving-related collisions in the West Region during the campaign period. In 2019, there were 45 collisions, compared to 55 in 2018.
Inspector Shawn Johnson, the West Region OPP Traffic and Marine Manager, credits the decrease in impaired driving incidents to the efforts of the officers and the support of the community. He also emphasizes the importance of responsible decision-making when it comes to drinking and driving.
“While we are pleased to see a decline in impaired driving incidents, even one impaired driver on the road is one too many,” said Inspector Johnson. “We urge everyone to plan ahead and make responsible choices when it comes to consuming alcohol or drugs.”
The Festive RIDE campaign is just one of the many initiatives undertaken by the OPP to promote safe driving and reduce the number of impaired drivers on the road. The OPP also reminds the public that impaired driving is not just limited to alcohol, but also includes driving under the influence of drugs, both illegal and prescription.
The OPP encourages anyone who suspects an impaired driver to call 911 immediately. They also remind drivers to always have a designated driver, use public transportation, or call a taxi or ride-sharing service if they plan on consuming alcohol or drugs.
The results of the Festive RIDE campaign in the West Region of the OPP show a positive trend towards safer roads during the holiday season. However, it is important for everyone to continue making responsible decisions when it comes to drinking and driving to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road.
