DRUNK DRIVING ON THE RISE?

MADD says charges up 25% this year

Is Windsor-essex really getting the message about the dangers of impaired driving?

According to Chaouki Hamka, who leads Mothers Against Drunk Driving in Windsor-essex, the number of impaired driving charges laid in the city and the region in 2019 has increased compared to last year.

Hamka said there was a 25 per cent rise in impaired driving charges in Windsor — 267 so far this year. Across Essex County, there was a 20 per cent rise — 222 so far this year, Hamka said. The only municipality that showed improvement this year was Lasalle: 15 so far in 2019, compared to 20 in 2018 and 23 in 2017, Hamka said.

Hamka said his findings are based on data provided to MADD by Windsor police, Lasalle police, and Essex County OPP.

But the statistics might not tell the whole story: Hamka said one reason the number of charges have increased could be heavier enforcement efforts by police.

“Police are really out there cracking down on impaired driving,” Hamka said.

“That’s in combination with our awareness programs — our campaign which encourages the public to call police and report suspected impaired drivers.”

Meanwhile, Windsor police are reminding drivers to celebrate safely this time of year.

“Please make a commitment, if you are planning to consume alcohol or drugs, to not get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle,” police requested.

Plan before you party, Windsor police advise: Make sure you have a safe ride home before the drinks come out.

You can designate a sober driver, arrange a taxi or similar service, or use public transit, police said. If all else fails, arrange a place to stay overnight.

“We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season,” Windsor police said.

DAX MELMER FILES Chaouki Hamka, community leader with MADD in Windsor and Essex County, says the number of impaired driving charges could have increased due to heavier enforcement by police.