Waterloo Regional Police are reminding motorists to drive sober following a significant increase in impaired driving incidents across Waterloo Region.

Between November 21 and November 23, 2025, officers responded to 14 impaired driving-related calls, resulting in multiple charges. This represents a 250% increase compared to the previous three-day period, which saw four calls.

Of the weekend incidents:

• Six occurred in Cambridge, three in Kitchener, three in Waterloo, and one each in North Dumfries and Wilmot Townships.
• Four involved alcohol and collisions.
• Two involved drug impairment with collisions.
• One involved a novice driver with blood alcohol above zero.

These incidents included dangerous driving behaviours that put lives at risk. 

On November 22, 2025, just before 5 a.m., officers stopped a vehicle travelling eastbound on Highway 401 after receiving reports of it swerving and slowing to speeds under 90 km/h. The driver was arrested and charged with Operation While Impaired - Alcohol and Drugs and Failure to Comply with Demand. 

Later that day, around 5:30 p.m., a driver in Kitchener struck a parked vehicle and continued driving erratically – swerving into oncoming lanes, nearly hitting other cars and a GRT bus, and speeding through a parking lot before stopping. Multiple witnesses reported the vehicle was out of control and causing traffic hazards. The driver was charged with Operation While Impaired - Alcohol and Drugs, Failure to stop after accident, and Dangerous Operation.

As part of ongoing efforts to keep roads safe, Waterloo Regional Police conducted a Festive RIDE program on November 22 in the area of Dundas Street North and Roxboro Road in Cambridge. Officers checked 950 vehicles and issued:

• One three-day suspension
• Two seatbelt charges
• One improper turn charge
• One insecure load charge

Waterloo Regional Police continue to participate in Festive RIDE programs throughout the holiday season to help keep our roads safe. Driving impaired is never worth the risk. If you suspect an impaired driver, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Thank you to community members who reported unsafe driving and suspected impaired drivers – your calls help keep our roads safe.