By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
When it comes to curbing impaired driving, education and public awareness are key.
That’s the message the Chatham-Kent Police Service is stressing as it kicked off its annual Festive RIDE program on the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims Nov. 20.
According to Lisa Rodger, the CKPS traffic management officer co-ordinating the RIDE initiative, people need to be reminded that driving when impaired is a choice – one that can have a devastating outcome.
“We want to remind every individual that the choices they make behind the wheel can change lives in an instant,” Rodgers said at the RIDE launch. “A decision to drive impaired may seem harmless or justifiable in the moment, but the consequences can be far-reaching.”
CKPS statistics from 2023 bear witness to the problem, as 10 people died on local roads due to driver impairment. In total, police responded to 22 major collisions last year, of which eight involved driver impairment.
In 2024, Chatham-Kent police have investigated 18 major collisions, of which seven were fatal. Four of the 18 collisions and three deaths involved impaired drivers
“From crashes that cause injury or death, to the long-term effects on families and communities, no one wins when impaired driving takes place,” the officer said. “So, let’s take action. Let’s pledge to always plan ahead. If you drink, designate a driver, call a taxi, use a rideshare service, or arrange alternative transportation.”
Rodgers said 39 RIDE program checks were conducted in 2023 and 6,581 vehicles were stopped. To date, 39 RIDE checks have been held in 2024.
The National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims, held each November, is a day for reflection, compassion and unity that calls on everyone to reflect upon the importance of road safety and the value of human life.
“Behind every statistic is a family member, a friend, a colleague, a person whose absence leaves an irreplaceable void,” Rodgers said. “In remembering these victims, we not only honour their memories, but we also renew our commitment to preventing further tragedies. Whether it’s driving under the influence, speeding, distracted driving, or failing to obey traffic laws, these are choices.”
Rodgers pointed out that every life lost in a road crash – regardless if it is alcohol, drugs or any substance that impairs the ability to drive – the issue “touches us all.”
Extra vigilance is required she stressed, as police are seeing more preventable tragedies relating to recreational and prescription drugs, and appropriate caution must be taken.
“We have the power to change the outcome,” Rodgers stressed. “Our goal is clear. We must educate, prevent, and ultimately reduce impaired driving incidents. This is a community effort—one that requires all of us to act responsibly, spread awareness, and support each other in making the choice to drive sober.”
