Driving while impaired in Ontario could soon result in additional penalties including mandatory ignition interlock devices and licence suspensions.
The provincial government is introducing legislation that, if passed, will mandate a lifetime licence suspension for anyone convicted of impaired driving causing death.
As well, first convictions for impaired driving will result in mandatory remedial education, with second convictions resulting in remedial treatment. As well, anyone convicted will face immediate roadside licence suspensions and have to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle.
“Despite progress, too many people are still making the choice to drive impaired, and we need to ensure sanctions hold drivers accountable while focusing on reducing recidivism,” said MADD Canada CEO Steve Sullivan.
The province said it will also be working to provide additional tools and training to help police officers detect drug-impaired driving.
According to the government, the percentage of drivers killed while under the influence of cannabis more than doubled between 2012 and 2020.