Between November 15, 2024, and January 1, 2025, Waterloo Regional Police held Festive R.I.D.E. (Reducing Impaired Driving Everywhere) programs throughout Waterloo Region. The campaign aimed to raise awareness regarding impaired driving and ensure motorists were driving sober. 

During the Festive R.I.D.E. programs, police checked 8,157 vehicles and administered 76 roadside breath samples with an approved screening device. Police also laid numerous charges, including: 

• 3 impaired driving-related charges
• 9 three-day suspensions
• 24 Highway Traffic Act charges
• 1 Cannabis Control Act charge

“Our members conducted R.I.D.E. programs in all three cities and four townships across the Region and checked over 8,000 vehicles this holiday season,” said Staff Sergeant Griffiths of the WRPS’ Traffic Services Unit. “Our members will continue to be on the lookout for impaired drivers throughout 2025 and we ask drivers to please make the right decision and not drive if you choose to consume alcohol or drugs.”

The Waterloo Regional Police Service would like to remind motorists about the dangers and risks associated with driving impaired. All young drivers, novice drivers, and commercial drivers are required to have zero presence of alcohol and/or drugs in their system while driving. 

All motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and arrange for a safe ride home. If you observe or suspect a motorist is driving impaired, call 9-1-1.