Driver charged with impaired after vehicle found in ditch in northern Ontario

A glass of whiskey with ice, car keys and police handcuffs are shown in this stock image illustrating the concept of impaired driving. (File photo/AlexRaths/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

A 19-year-old motorist from Englehart faces impaired driving charges after a single-vehicle crash on Long Lake Road in Charlton, Ont.

Ontario Provincial Police say officers were dispatched to the scene after police received a report of a black vehicle in the ditch near Charlton at about 6:30 a.m. on April 16.

Investigation at the scene

“Officers attended the scene and encountered a lone occupant and through the investigation, police determined they had consumed alcohol,” OPP said in a news release.

The occupant was taken into custody and transported to an OPP detachment for further testing.

Charges and penalties

As a result of the investigation, the 19-year-old was charged with two impaired driving offences, including operation with a blood alcohol concentration exceeding 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.

“The vehicle was towed from the scene and impounded for 7 days,” police said.

In addition to the impound and charges, the motorist’s driver’s licence was automatically suspended for 90 days.

The accused is scheduled to appear in traffic court at a later date.

Public reminder against impaired driving

The police service used the incident to emphasize the dangers of impaired driving and that it continues to be a leading cause of death on Ontario roads.

“If you plan to consume alcohol or drugs, arrange for a designated driver, take a taxi, or use a rideshare service,” wrote acting OPP Sgt Martin Thibault, in the release.