Impaired driving isn’t just dangerous, it can be life-altering. Every year, impaired drivers claim countless lives and shattered families. They also face severe consequences for getting behind the wheel under the influence.
March 17 to 23 is National Impaired Driving Prevention Week (March 17–23). In this article, we explore facts about impaired driving in Canada, the legal limits, and what happens if you’re caught driving under the influence.
The reality of impaired driving in Canada
Despite increased awareness and stricter penalties, impaired driving remains a major issue. According to MADD Canada, impaired driving is the leading criminal cause of death in the country.
While deaths due to impaired driving have dropped to their lowest levels, there are still approximately 500 fatalities and still thousands of injuries every year.
In 2023, police reported over 250,000 impaired driving incidents, including alcohol and drug-related offenses, with nearly 600,000 persons charged. Every hour in Canada, an average of nine drivers face federal criminal charges or provincial short-term license suspensions for alcohol- or drug-impaired driving.
Learn more: Major or minor traffic conviction — What’s the difference?
Blood-alcohol limits and licensing levels
Canada’s laws are designed to keep roads safe by enforcing strict regulations based on a driver’s experience level. Canada has a zero-tolerance policy for new drivers, while fully licensed drivers have a strict legal limit.
Understanding the legal limits for alcohol and drug consumption while driving is crucial, as even small amounts can impair judgment and reaction time.
● G1, G2, M1, and M2 drivers (Graduated Licensing System): Absolutely no alcohol or drugs in your system while driving. Even a trace amount can result in serious consequences.
● Fully licensed drivers (G, M, etc.): The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. However, many provinces have “warn range” penalties that start at 0.05% BAC.
How many drinks is the maximum legal blood alcohol level?
While BAC is affected by factors like weight, metabolism, and food intake, a rough estimate is:
● 1-2 drinks (beer, wine, or a single shot of liquor) could put you near or over 0.05% BAC.
● 3-4 drinks could put you at or over 0.08% BAC, making it illegal to drive.
Even if you think you “feel fine,” alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination – all of which are key skills needed for safe driving.
Read more: Requirements and restrictions for getting your G1 in Ontario
What happens if you’re pulled over for impaired driving?
Law enforcement officers across Canada are trained to detect impaired drivers and have strict procedures in place to ensure road safety. If you’re pulled over and suspected of driving under the influence, here’s what you can expect:
- Roadside screening: You may be asked to take a breathalyzer test or perform a standardized field sobriety test (e.g., walking in a straight line).
- Failure or refusal: If your BAC is over the legal limit, or you refuse testing, you’ll face immediate penalties, including license suspension and vehicle impoundment.
- Further testing: If necessary, you’ll be taken to a police station for additional breath or blood tests.
The long-term consequences of impaired driving
The consequences of impaired driving extend far beyond the immediate dangers on the road. While the risk of causing a serious or fatal crash is the worst imaginable outcome, the legal and financial blowback can also derail a driver’s life.
The penalties for driving under the influence are severe and long-lasting. Here’s what you could be facing if convicted:
● Criminal record: A first-time conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can affect job prospects, travel, and more.
● License suspension: You could lose your driving privileges for months, years, or even permanently.
● Fines and jail time: Minimum fines start at $1,000 and repeat offenses can lead to jail time.
● Ignition interlock program: You may have to install a breathalyzer in your vehicle before you’re allowed to drive again.
In Canada, an impaired driving offence stays on your driving record for at least three years from the date of conviction, and on your criminal record for decades. An impaired driving conviction can also impact your insurance premiums for six years, making coverage significantly more expensive.
Insurance impacts of drinking and driving
If the legal penalties weren’t enough, the financial fallout is just as severe, especially when it comes to your insurance. Your insurance rates will skyrocket after an impaired driving conviction! In most cases:
● You’ll be labeled a high-risk driver, making it difficult (and expensive) to get coverage.
● Premiums can double or triple, costing you thousands more per year.
● Some insurers may refuse to cover you altogether, forcing you to seek specialized, high-risk insurance.
Related: The best way for high-risk drivers to get car insurance
Drive sober, stay safe
The consequences of impaired driving are severe – not just legally and financially, but morally. A single decision can cost drivers their future, or worse, someone’s life. The safest choice? Plan ahead. Use a designated driver, call a cab, take public transit, or use a ride-sharing service. There are always safer options than getting behind the wheel impaired.
Read next: How cannabis use behind the wheel can impact your car insurance rate
