As of August 1, 2010, Ontario has implemented new measures to make roads safer and keep impaired drivers off of the roads. All drivers 21 years and younger must now have zero blood alcohol level while driving.
The penalty for violations includes:
- An immediate 24 hour license suspension
- 30 day license suspension
- Up to a $500 fine
There are more severe penalties for drivers currently participating in the graduated licensing program.
Despite this attempt by the McGuinty government to curb drinking and driving, Kevin Wiener, a a 20-year old Toronto resident, is challenging the new law as age discrimination and a violation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Wiener argues that the legislation is selectively applied to drivers under 22, when it should have broad application to all drivers, regardless of age.
Below are impaired driving statistics:
- The peak ages of drinking and driving collisions are between 19 and 21
- In Ontario, 235 drivers age 21 and under were killed in drinking and driving collisions in the latest 10-year period for which statistics are available
For more information on the new legislation CLICK HERE
If you or anyone you know has been injured by an impaired driver, please contact Neinstein & Associates