Most people associate impaired driving offences with alcohol, but drugs are also responsible for a significant number of impaired driving charges. According to a CTV Toronto report, 45 per cent of Ontario motorists killed in motor vehicle accidents were under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In response, lawmakers have implemented the “Making Ontario Roads Safer Act,” which went into effect September 1, 2015. The Act features numerous provisions, including higher fines for distracted driving, new rules for pedestrian crossovers and vehicles passing cyclists, and a new “move over” law that requires motorists to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles.
Additionally, the Act imposes tougher penalties on drivers stopped for driving under the influence of drugs.
Drug-Impaired Driving Just as Serious as Drunk Driving
Under the Act, motorists caught driving under the influence of drugs now face the same penalties as motorists charged with driving drunk.
Specifically, a driver charged with driving while high is subject to a licence suspension ranging between three days and 90 days. Motorists charged with drug-related impaired driving could also have their vehicle impounded for up to one week. Motorists charged with impaired driving also face thousands of dollars in fines and possible jail time. The penalties increase for subsequent convictions.
If you have been charged with drug-related impaired driving, your entire future is on the line. It’s important to consult an experienced criminal defence lawyer as soon as possible.
Ottawa, Ontario Criminal Defence
Criminal defence lawyer Bruce Engel has represented individuals and businesses charged with hundreds of different offences throughout Canada for more than two decades. From the start of a criminal investigation to the close of a trial, we will take a balanced and forceful approach to your defence. We have the experience and know-how to effectively navigate the constantly changing justice system in Canada.
