At Gibb Insurance Brokers in Amherstburg, Ontario, we’re dedicated to helping our community stay safe—including staying informed about the serious issue of drug-impaired driving. Below, we'll delve into the consequences of drug-impaired driving, how impairment is determined by police, some revealing statistics, and what you can do to help prevent it.
Driving under the influence of drugs in Ontario is not just dangerous; it carries severe legal repercussions. Here are the key consequences:
1. Immediate License Suspension:
- First Offense: Expect a 90-day administrative driver's license suspension (ADLS).
- Subsequent Offenses: Longer suspensions, and potentially even permanent bans.
2. Vehicle Impoundment:
- Your vehicle may be impounded for seven days.
3. Criminal Charges:
- You could face criminal charges under the Criminal Code of Canada, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record.
4. Fines and Court Costs:
- Minimum fines start at $1,000 for a first offense and increase with subsequent offenses.
5. Mandatory Education or Treatment Programs:
- Offenders may be required to attend education or treatment programs.
6. Ignition Interlock Program:
- Often mandatory after a conviction, necessitating an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
Statistics on Drug-Impaired Driving in Ontario
While data is continually updated, some noteworthy points include:
- Increased Incidents: Drug-impaired driving incidents have been on the rise, especially since the legalization of cannabis.
- Polydrug Use: Many drug-impaired driving cases involve the use of multiple substances.
- Collision Rates: Drug-impaired drivers are more likely to be involved in fatal and serious injury collisions than non-impaired drivers.
How You Can Help Prevent Drug-Impaired Driving
Here are some actionable steps you can take to help prevent drug-impaired driving:
- Education and Awareness: Stay informed and educate friends and family about the dangers and consequences of drug-impaired driving.
- Plan Ahead: If you plan to use drugs, make arrangements for safe transportation, such as public transit, rideshare services, or a designated driver.
- Encourage Responsible Behavior: Advocate for planning a safe way to get home among your peers if they have consumed drugs.
- Intervene: If someone you know intends to drive while impaired, intervene and offer a safer alternative.
- Support Policies and Programs: Participate in and support community initiatives to reduce impaired driving.
At Gibb Insurance Brokers, we believe in fostering a safe community. By understanding the severe consequences and actively participating in prevention strategies, we can make our roads safer for everyone in Amherstburg, Windsor-Essex County and beyond.