The Ontario Provincial Police says impaired driving continues to be a major concern on eastern Ontario roads.
As of the end of June 2025, police say officers have investigated 575 impaired driving incidents.
While that number is slightly lower than the same time last year, police say the risk to public safety remains high.
According to OPP East Region Traffic and Marine Manager, Inspector Josh Kingsley, impaired driving is entirely preventable but can have devastating consequences. “One impaired driver is one too many,” Kingsley stated, noting that the consequences often extend beyond the driver, affecting innocent people and families.
So far this year, OPP have responded to 22 fatal collisions in the region, crashes that claimed the lives of 25 people. Alcohol or drugs were factors in five of those fatalities.
The OPP says officers are patrolling 24/7 to identify and stop dangerous drivers, including those impaired by alcohol or drugs. They’re also urging the public to take action by reporting suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1.
Police say community members can play a vital role in preventing tragedy by helping to keep unsafe drivers off the roads.
The OPP reminds drivers that there is no excuse for impaired driving so plan ahead, drive sober, and help save lives.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
