Drivers should expect to see more OPP cruisers and checkpoints set up across Lambton County as the Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign officially kicks off.
The annual holiday initiative is aimed at taking impaired drivers off of Ontario roadways.
During the 2024/2025 campaign, Lambton OPP conducted 125 RIDE events and issued 22 impaired driving charges.
In total, West Region OPP conducted 1,938 RIDE checks across 13 detachments last year and issued 292 impaired driving charges.
This year's campaign will run from November 20 until January 1, 2026.
"As we head into the holiday season, our priority is to keep every member of our community safe. Impaired driving is entirely preventable, and the consequences can be devastating," said Interim Lambton OPP Detachment Commander Insp. Ross Stuart. "Throughout the Festive RIDE campaign, Lambton OPP officers will be out in full force, at all hours, conducting checkpoints and removing impaired drivers from our roads. We're asking everyone to plan ahead and make responsible choices."
Provincial police are asking members of the public to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911.
OPP said whether someone is impaired by alcohol or drugs, both are considered serious crimes.
The Ontario government introduced tougher penalties for those convicted of impaired driving, which came into effect on January 1. One of the new measures included a lifetime driving ban for anyone convicted of impaired driving causing death.
The Ford government is also proposing a new policy that would require impaired drivers convicted in fatal collisions involving a parent to pay child support.
