T'is the season of jolliness, which also means the season of R.I.D.E: Reduced Impaired Driving Everywhere. It started off in 1977 as a campaign in Etobicoke (hence the 'E' then standing for 'Etobicoke'), but is now province-wide (or 'Everywhere'). The program is known for stopping vehicles at certain locations and doing a very simple check for alcohol impairment.
Here are a few things to know about the program and how you can avoid unpropitious encounter:
1. Don't dodge it: Police are usually on the look-out for people who make sudden attempts to avoid going through the check-out, such as making u-turns, or deeking down a side-street. You'll most-likely be picked up by back-up officers and coerced into undergoing the test nevertheless.
2. Don't refuse the test: A refusal to test results in the same penalty as blowing a 0.08 in the breathelizer, which, for one's first offence, is a 3-day license suspension and $150 fine. Best to take the risk and see: who knows, you might blow below 0.05.
3. Be aware: While RIDE is a year-long program, its resources are considerably kicked up during the holiday season between November 23 and January 1. Also, you're likely to find RIDE programs around major sporting events and other public venues. It's good to be aware of this and be wise about your alcohol consumption prior to driving your vehicle.
4. Big bucks: According to the Globe and Mail, "The estimated average cost of a conviction arising from a RIDE program stop is $18,000. This includes towing, car impound fees, legal costs, court-imposed fines, and increased insurance premiums."
It's a great time of year for enjoying times with family and friends, but it's also important to be wise. The RIDE program folk are trying to prevent drug and alcohol related accidents from harming people. Know your limit. Know that the program is out there; and know that if you are convicted, it'll cost you money--at the least.
No comments:
Post a Comment