Weekend impaired driving calls jumped 250 per cent in Waterloo Region

Police reported a 250 per cent increase in impaired driving incidents in Waterloo Region. CTV’s Karis Mapp has an important safety reminder ahead of the holiday

Waterloo Regional Police have renewed their plea for drivers to stay sober behind the wheel.

It coincides with some startling statistics gathered over a three-day period.

Police responded to more than 14 impaired driving calls between Friday and Sunday. Only four incidents were reported to police the three days prior, marking a 250 per cent increase.

“It certainly is concerning. It’s a high number for us in regard to impaired driving-related offences,” said Sgt. Scott Griffiths. “We laid numerous charges in regard to impaired driving and other alcohol and drug-related offences. It certainly shows a very high increase over the previous week’s results.”

On Monday morning, a tractor trailer tipped over on the Dickie Settlement Road in North Dumfries. Police said an impaired driver was behind the wheel. The 64-year-old Kitchener man was charged with impaired and dangerous operation of a vehicle.

No one was hurt but police warned it could have been much worse.

“It’s extra important given the size and the speed at which they can travel,” Griffiths said. “The possibility for damage and death and injury is severe.”

The incident was also a reminder that impaired driving doesn’t just happen at night.

“It’s a 24-hour, seven days a week problem that we’re trying to combat, not only through enforcement but education.”

Staying safe over the holidays

The safety message comes just as Waterloo Regional Police and other policing agencies launch their Festive R.I.D.E. (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign, in collaboration with MADD Canada’s Project Red Ribbon.

“We bring extra attention to the dangers of drunk driving,” Griffiths explained. “Every weekend we’re conducting multiple R.I.D.E. programs throughout the region.”

“At many stops, our volunteers will be with them to thank those people who are driving sober,” Steve Sullivan, CEO of MADD Canada, told CTV News.

But why are drivers still choosing to get behind the wheel while impaired by drugs or alcohol, especially since they have the option of taking public transit, taxi or rideshare service?

“People generally say they didn’t have far to go, they could take a backroad, or they can just drive carefully,” Sullivan explained. “They didn’t think they’d see a police officer.”

“There’s sometimes an overestimation of people’s own abilities,” said Griffiths. “Some people feel that, although they’ve had a few drinks or consuming drugs, they’re somehow okay.”

The sober driving campaign aims to change that mindset.