Since 1 May 2024, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have intensified their efforts against impaired driving in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) by enforcing mandatory alcohol screening (MAS) during every traffic stop.
This measure comes as impaired driving charges and related collisions have surged by nearly 30% across the Ontario province compared to the past five-year average. In the GTA, there is about a 50% increase in impaired driving crashes this year already compared to the previous 5 years.
It is worth mentioning that this initiative utilizes the expanded powers granted by Canada’s Mandatory Alcohol Screening laws, which were amended in 2018 and allow for breath tests without initial suspicion of impairment.
How the New Mandatory Breathalyzer Regulation Works in Ontario
- The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will conduct Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS) during every traffic stop. So, if you’re stopped for speeding, careless driving, distracted driving, seat belt offences, etc.,or anytime you’re stopped by the OPP HSD, you’ll also be required to provide a breath sample.
- Areas of implementation: the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Hamilton Area.
- You cannot refuse to provide a breath sample.
- Consequences of failure or refusing to provide a breath sample:
- Immediate 90-day roadside licence suspension
- Vehicle impoundment for at least 7 days
- $550 fine
- Licence suspension for 1 year
- Criminal charges with harsher consequences. Read more on what happens if you refuse a breathalyzer in Ontario.
- You must comply with Ontario alcohol limits, otherwise, you may face DUI charges and harsh impaired driving penalties.
Legal Help With Failure to Provide a Breath Sample Charges in Ontario
If you’re facing the challenges of new mandatory breathalyzer Ontario regulations, consider X-COPS DUI Lawyers your crucial allies. With our deep understanding of impaired driving laws and the latest traffic regulations, we are uniquely positioned to offer robust legal representation.
Our team provides comprehensive legal support through every stage of your case, including custom defence strategies, court representation, and trial preparation. Don’t navigate this complex legal landscape alone; let X-COPS advocate for your rights and strive for the best possible outcome in your case.
Contact us for a free consultation today to ensure you have the strongest defence against a charge of refusing a breathalyzer test in Ontario.