Stock photo of breathalyzer test
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has released the results of its annual Festive RIDE initiative.
It began November 21st and ran until January 1st.
While officers significantly increased the number of roadside checks this year, police say impaired driving continues to pose a risk on local roads.
During the 2025 campaign, officers administered 875 roadside tests, a notable increase from 507 tests in 2024 and 621 in 2023. As a result of the enhanced enforcement, 43 drivers were arrested for alcohol-impaired driving, five for drug-impaired driving, and one driver was charged with refusal. In addition, 14 drivers received three-day roadside licence suspensions, while one driver received a seven-day suspension.
By comparison, the 2024 Festive RIDE campaign resulted in 48 impaired driving arrests and 10 roadside suspensions, while the 2023 campaign saw 53 arrests and 17 roadside suspensions.
Staff Sergeant Ryan Smith of HRPS Community Services said the results highlight the ongoing need for enforcement and public awareness.
“While it’s encouraging to see a strong enforcement presence and increased testing this year, impaired driving remains a persistent issue,” Smith said. “Every impaired driver we remove from the road reduces the risk of serious injury or death. Our message remains clear — impaired driving is dangerous, illegal, and completely preventable.”
Police are reminding residents that impaired driving includes alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. Drivers can face criminal charges, immediate roadside suspensions, vehicle impoundments, and long-term consequences, even if their blood-alcohol level is below the criminal limit.
HRPS continues to urge drivers to plan ahead, arrange a safe ride home, or use alternative transportation if consuming alcohol or drugs. Anyone who suspects an impaired driver is asked to call 9-1-1 immediately.
