(PERTH COUNTY, ON) Members of the Perth County OPP were highly visible over the holiday season as they checked 26,953 vehicles as part of their Festive R.I.D.E. (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) initiative.
This year’s initiative was conducted from November 26 through to January 2, 2011 with R.I.D.E. checks occurring on roads in Perth County at any time of day during the 38 day period.
Perth County OPP Detachment Commander Inspector Steve Porter was pleased to announce that the total number of drivers checked was well above last years figures. He noted that 1 driver was charged with operating a motor vehicle with over 80 mgs. of alcohol in 100 ml of blood while 8 drivers registered between 50 and 80 mgs. and subsequently lost their licence for 3 days. One driver received also received a 90 day driver’s licence suspension. Another 43 drivers were charged with drug, liquor and Highway Traffic Act offences.
Inspector Porter stated “I am pleased with the effort and results of this year’s campaign and I know that our officer’s efforts have paid off in the fact that our collision numbers have shown a definite decrease from previous years. We will continue our commitment to saving lives on Perth County roadways, waterways and trailsâ€.
Motorists are reminded that regular R.I.D.E. programs will continue to be conducted throughout the year in Perth County as part of the OPP’s committed effort to reduce tragic loss of life and injury on Ontario’s roads due to impaired driving.