Disabled drivers face harsher penalties in Ontario, including a lifetime ban

TORONTO – Ontario’s Progressive Conservative government will announce a new law that would impose tougher penalties for people convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The Transport Minister says the Government is introducing tough new measures, including lifetime license bans, to protect families and keep people safe on the roads.

Prabmeet Sarkaria says Ontario families’ lives are being torn apart by “negligent and shameful actions by impaired drivers.”

The proposed law would impose a lifetime driver’s license suspension for those convicted of impaired driving resulting in death.

The government would also require anyone convicted of impaired driving to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle and undergo mandatory education and treatment for their first or second alcohol or drug offense.

Sarkaria is expected to announce the legislation at a news conference scheduled for 10 a.m. in Toronto.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 15, 2024.

The Canadian Press