Impaired driving remains a serious issue in Eastern Ontario

OPP are reminding people to avoid driving if under the influence

Impaired driving continues to be a major concern on Eastern Ontario roads. As of the end of June 2025, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers have investigated 575 impaired driving incidents across the region. While this marks a slight decrease compared to the same period in 2024, police say the numbers are still troubling.

"One impaired driver is one too many. We know impaired driving can have a deadly impact, affecting not only that driver, but potentially others on the roads and highways, innocent families." - Inspector Josh Kingsley, OPP East Region Traffic & Marine Manager

So far this year, the region has seen 22 fatal collisions resulting in 25 deaths. Impaired driving was a factor in five of those tragedies.

The OPP remains vigilant, with officers patrolling day and night to catch drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Police are urging the public to stay alert and report suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1.

Authorities stress that every impaired driving incident is preventable — and that speaking up could save lives on the road. Safety remains a shared responsibility for all drivers.

Story by Tim Baltz