Summer is in full swing, and many Ontarians take full advantage of the sunny weather. They have BBQs, attend parties, hit the beach, etc. For many of these events, alcohol is present. Hosts of BBQs and parties will buy alcohol for their guests. Beach goers will pack a cooler of beer. It is important to plan ahead to avoid drunk driving or impaired driving.
There should be a designated driver when you go to a summer BBQ or party where alcohol will be served. If you decide to drive while under the influence, you may face serious consequences.
Ontario’s Drunk Driving Law
Ontario has one of the toughest driving under the influence (DUI) laws in Canada.
If a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is over .08, they are charged with driving under the influence, which is a criminal offence. If convicted for the first time, drivers face the following consequences:
- mandatory alcohol education or treatment program,
- drivers must install an ignition interlock device in the vehicle for 1 year, at their own expense,
- $1,000 fine, and
- licence suspended for 1 year.
Warn Range
In Ontario however, even if drivers’ BAC levels do not exceed the .08 legal limit, they still face provincial administrative penalties. If drivers’ BAC levels are in the ‘warn range’ of .05 to .08 for the first time, they face the following consequences:
- licence suspended for 3 days, and
- $180 administrative monetary penalty.
Civil Consequences
In addition, if drunk drivers cause car accidents and injure other motorists or pedestrians, they are likely to be held liable for victims’ injuries and damages. The injured motorists/pedestrians may file tort claims against drunk drivers to financially recover for their damages and injuries.
Alcohol affects drivers’ ability to drive. Drivers may suffer from double vision, slowed reflexes and impaired attention. If you are attending a party this summer and plan on drinking, make sure you have a plan to get home. Don’t get behind the wheel. Your life and other innocent people’s lives may be changed forever if you get behind the wheel drunk.
If you are the designated driver, refrain from drinking. Even one drink can affect your ability to react to things while driving.
Ontario Drunk Driving Accidents
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you have legal rights. The car accident lawyers at Bergeron Clifford can help. Call to schedule a FREE consultation today. 866-384-5886
