Alcohol, keys and police handcuffs depicting drinking and driving.  © Can Stock Photo / jirkaejcAlcohol, keys and police handcuffs depicting drinking and driving. © Can Stock Photo / jirkaejc
Sarnia

New Year's Eve revelers encouraged to plan ahead

City police are reminding motorists to not drink and drive this New Year's Eve.

Sarnia police said so far in 2023, officers have issued 64 impaired driving charges, and 56 for over 80 (more than 80 milligrams of alcohol for every 100 millilitres of blood.)

Cst. Nelson Amaral advises party goers to plan ahead. He said there is no excuse to drive while impaired.

"Before you head out, know how you're going to get home," said Amaral. "You can use a designated driver, use public transit, or call a friend or family member for a ride. Use a taxi, Uber or other rideshare service or consider staying overnight. There's a number of choices you can make."

Officers will also be out on Sunday conducting RIDE spot-checks as a deterrent. Police said if you suspect someone is driving while impaired, call police, maintain a safe distance and don't attempt to follow the driver.

Cst. Amaral said consequences for getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol include vehicle impoundment, suspended licenses, fines and jail time upon conviction.

Sarnia Transit's special New Year's Eve service on Sunday will run from 6:30 p.m. until 1:30 a.m. There will be no transit service on Monday New Year's Day.

For the full list of routes visit the city's website.

Also, there are no parking restrictions in Sarnia on Sunday night. Motorists will be able to leave their vehicles parked on the road without getting a ticket.

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