No impaired drivers found among 400 North Bay RIDE stops

A North Bay Police Service officer is shown conducting RIDE checks in the field in this undated image. (File photo/CTV News Northern Ontario)

Approximately 400 vehicles passed through RIDE checks in North Bay during February, with police reporting no impaired drivers detected during the month-long enforcement initiative.

The North Bay Police Service conducted RIDE checks throughout February, using stationary checkpoints and mobile traffic stops to screen for alcohol and drug impairment.

“Getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after you’ve been drinking or taking drugs endangers you, your passengers and everyone else on the road,” said Sgt. Greg McClenaghan in a news release.

During the enforcement period, officers made 12 roadside approved screening device demands. Police said the efforts are part of an ongoing commitment to proactive traffic safety.

“Plan ahead. If you drink or use drugs, don’t drive; arrange a safe ride,” wrote North Bay police spokesperson Jennifer Cross in the release.

The enforcement comes as new, strengthened impaired driving penalties took effect in Ontario on Jan. 1, 2026. Under the Highway Traffic Act changes, penalties now include:

• Longer immediate licence suspensions
• Expanded “look-back” periods for repeat offenders
• Mandatory education or treatment programs
• Tougher consequences for serious or repeat impaired driving incidents, including increased insurance impacts and potential lifetime licence suspensions for offences causing death

Zero-tolerance rules remain in effect for young and novice drivers.

North Bay police said impaired driving is entirely preventable and noted that one decision can have lasting legal, financial and personal consequences.