Province showing zero tolerance to young drivers

Ontario’s plan to enforce a zero alcohol tolerance for drivers under 22 years old is a step in the right direction, says the president of MADD Thunder Bay.

On Aug. 1, drivers 21 years old and younger who consumed any amount of alcohol can no longer drive a vehicle no matter what license they have. Under the new strict drinking and driving provision, drivers could receive an immediate 24-hour license suspension, a 30-day license suspension, or a fine of up to $500.

Carole Sawchuk, president of MADD Thunder Bay, said she hopes the new law will deter young drivers who might consume alcohol and then drive, but added that zero tolerance for all drivers is still what the organization ultimately would like to see.

"People are going to push the limits to see how far they can go," Sawchuk said. "It is going to happen no matter how old you are. We have a lot of parliamentarians that are on our side and they are trying their best but when you have other obstacles in front of you it is hard to convince them that is what needs to be done."

Thunder Bay Police Service traffic Sgt. Glenn Porter said there wouldn’t be any transitional period for drivers 21 years old and younger who consume alcohol.

Young drivers found with any alcohol in their system will have their license immediately suspended for 24-to-72 hours or will be arrested for impaired driving, he said.

"You can’t have any alcohol in your blood up to your 22nd birthday," Porter said.

"The government has recognized that young drivers do pose a significant threat in regards to drinking and driving. This new law perhaps aims to eliminate that possibility."