While police have responded to fewer fatal crashes this year, Chatham-Kent officers say even one life lost in a collision is one too many.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service launched its Festive RIDE campaign on Wednesday, which will see officers conducting spot checks for impaired drivers leading into the new year. Wednesday also marked the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims.
According to authorities, the Chatham-Kent Police Traffic Management Unit has investigated 18 serious motor vehicle collisions so far this year, down from 22 in 2023. A total of seven people have lost their lives this year in crashes on municipal roads, however, that is down significantly from the 17 deaths in crashes last year.
Despite the decline in fatal collisions, Constable Lisa Rodger said police will be conducting even more RIDE stops this year.
“[During] the holiday season there are a lot of Christmas parties, things like that. You’re going to see us out in full force, not only just RIDE programs, but the guys on general patrol as well have really picked up their RIDE stops.”
Three of this year’s fatal collisions were a result of impaired driving, police officials said.
“When you attend a crash and you find out [it was an impaired driver], it’s frustrating to know that it could have been prevented,” said Rodger. “Just don’t get behind the wheel is our message. Find an alternative ride. We understand that it’s the holiday season, people like to celebrate, but do it responsibly.”
So far this year, Chatham-Kent police have stopped 4,502 vehicles during 39 RIDE programs. Of those, 14 roadside sobriety tests were conducted, five tickets were issued and one person was handed a three-day licence suspension.
The Festive RIDE campaign runs from November 21, 2024 until January 1, 2025.
