Lambton OPP and the Sarnia Police Service are keeping an extra eye out for impaired drivers this holiday season.
Both have started their annual festive RIDE campaigns, looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Sarnia Police Constable Nelson Amaral said motorists will notice a new line of questioning.
"When you pull up to a RIDE program you can expect to be asked if you've consumed alcohol, and if you've consumed marijuana," said Amaral. "The marijuana question is new with legalization in effect. Just answer honestly. If you have consumed alcohol, tell us how much. If it was one beer three hours ago, there's a good chance you won't need to do a roadside sobriety test."
Amaral said officers are well-trained at spotting those impaired by pot.
"That's a three-step process, a walk and turn, a one leg stand and a horizontal gaze test. It'll be an officer that's actually qualified as a standard field sobriety test officer. If that officer feels that you've failed that three-step process, then there's a second step. That's bringing you into the station to be analyzed and assessed."
Consequences for impaired driving include vehicle impoundment, suspended licenses, fines and jail time.
The RIDE programs will be in effect until the new year.
-With files from Stephanie Chaves
