The Hawkesbury Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has recently launched a new series of educational, hands-on presentations about impaired driving for high school students.
Students in secondary school are the least experienced and most vulnerable drivers on our roads. Using real-life stories, and practical demonstrations with local officers, this campaign aims to educate teens aged 15 to 18 about the often-devastating consequences of getting behind the wheel while impaired.
Impaired driving is a widespread issue in Ontario. Between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023, there were 88 impaired occurrences in the Hawkesbury detachment area, 21 per cent of which involved drivers under the age of 30.
What is impaired driving?
Impaired driving means operating a vehicle while your ability to do so has been compromised to any degree by consuming:
- alcohol
- drugs, including:
- cannabis
- over-the-counter drugs
- prescription medication
- illegal substances
- a combination of the above
In addition to driving cars and trucks, impaired driving laws also apply to those operating boats, snowmobiles and off-road vehicles.
If police determine that you have drugs or alcohol in your system and/or that you are impaired by any substance, you can face severe consequences and potential criminal charges.
How to avoid impaired driving
The best way to avoid impaired driving is to not take a chance. Plan another way home:
- have a designated sober driver
- use public transit
- call a friend or family member for a ride
- call a taxi or rideshare
- stay overnight
