OPP warns residents of signs of impaired driving ahead of New Year’s

While many people are out and about for New Year’s celebrations, Ontario Provincial Police are asking for people to be aware of drivers who may be impaired.

It’s New Year’s Eve and plans have likely been made already as to how to celebrate, but officers are hoping those plans include a safe ride home, especially if alcohol is consumed.

They are also reminding residents to keep an eye out on the roads.

As people drive to and from parties and events, officers say that if anyone suspects a driver to be impaired or is about to drive impaired, to call 911.

“Some of the signs people see are inconsistent speeds,” said OPP officer Taylor Konkle. “A vehicle might speed up or slow down, break inconsistently when no one is in front of them, leaving their turn signals on, not having their headlights on.”

For anyone who sees one of these actions, it may be a sign of impaired driving and police say to call 911.

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“Some people try to decide how many drinks they’ve had and if it’s safe, or they decide on based on how they feel,” says Steve Sullivan, the CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada.

MADD Canada warns these are not safe ways to decide if you are able to drive home.

They are urging people to plan in advance, have a conversation about alternative rides home, or even consider staying overnight if at a house party.

If those conversations become too much and you are unable to stop them, MADD Canada says to call 911.

“I know it’s really hard, I know it’s difficult especially with family and friends, but calling 911 might actually save their lives,” said Sullivan.

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