‘If you plan on driving, don’t drink’: Police urge New Year’s Eve revellers to plan ahead

OPP Const. Taylor Konkle on planning ahead and avoiding impaired driving to keep the roads safe this New Year’s Eve.

Police in the GTA are urging those heading out to New Year’s Eve celebrations to plan ahead so there’s no chance they get behind the wheel while impaired.

“Planning ahead is key. So right now, people should be planning how they’re going to get home tonight,” Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Const. Taylor Konkle told CP24 Wednesday morning. “So either that’s ride share, public transit, a friend, or staying the night – those are some good options.”

He said those planning to drink alcohol or use drugs tonight should be planning right now for how to avoid driving, as opposed to thinking about it after the fact.

Konkle pointed out that impaired driving remains the leading cause of death on Ontario roads and that OPP have laid hundreds of charges for the offence so far this year through thousands of RIDE check stops.

“We don’t want to be charging people with impaired driving,” Konkle said. “Our goal is to get the message out there and get people to stop drinking and driving.”

Cops also checking for drug impairment

Toronto police said they also plan to be out doing spot checks for impaired driving tonight. In a post, they reminded motorists that includes impairment through marijuana and other drugs.

“Our officers are trained to detect drug impairment. @TrafficServices reminds us the consequences for being caught impaired by drugs are the same as alcohol,” TPS said on X.

Konkle also advised those who are hosting parties to make sure their guests have a safe way home.

“If you’re hosting a party and you have guests that are driving, you make sure that they aren’t drinking and driving or consuming drugs while driving. Get them a ride home safely or let them stay the night,” Konkle said. “The message is; just plan. Get home safely with a designated driver.”

Free transit an option

Both the TTC and Go Transit are offering free rides from 7 p.m. on Dec. 31 until 8 a.m. on Jan. 1.

Other transit services around the GTA are also offering free services. York Region Transit (YRT) is offering extended service on select routes and free travel after 7 p.m. In Mississauga, MiWay will be offering free rides from 7 p.m. until 4 a.m. and extended service on some routes. Free transit rides will also be on offer after 7 p.m. in Durham Region and in Brampton.