16 people charged with impaired driving over one week in Ottawa

Ottawa police said the force is “encouraged” to see the number of people who are planning ahead before long weekends.

Officers took part in Canada Road Safety Week, which saw about 1,150 drivers stopped by Ottawa Police Service between May 13 to 19. Of the drivers stopped, 16 people were charged with impaired driving-related offences.

“Every time someone chooses not to drive impaired, they’re helping to protect lives,” Acting Sergeant Amy Gagnon, said. “We’re encouraged by the number of people who planned ahead for a sober ride and grateful to our partners for their continued efforts to make Ottawa’s roads safer for everyone.”

The goal of the campaign is for police to target “high risk” driving behaviours like impaired driving, aggressive driving, seatbelt issues, among other things.

Ontario Provincial Police detachments around the region also participated.

Across the east region, officers laid 2,500 charges during the week. Police said they placed more focus on traffic and road safety.

Results show that several people are facing offences such as:

• Speeding – 1,303
• Stunt driving – 38
• Impaired driving – 47
• Careless driving – 26
• Distracted driving – 71
• Driving while prohibited – 8
• Failing to have insurance /improper insurance – 151

“Road safety should be a driver’s number one priority everyday, 24/7/365. Lives depend on it,” police said.