Celebrate responsibly: Don’t let impaired driving ruin the holidays

The City of Mississauga reminds drivers to stay sober and alert on the roads to prevent collisions.

Local government | December 9, 2025

The holiday season is one of the most joyful times of the year, but one mistake on the road can turn joy into sorrow. The City of Mississauga continues to see road collisions due to impaired driving, and it gets worse during the holidays. The City, in partnership with Peel Regional Police, is reminding all drivers visiting friends and family or running errands, to do so responsibly.

Driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis or certain drugs is a serious offence. It adds to winter driving challenges such as freezing rain, snow and reduced daylight hours.

Warning! Driving impaired destroys lives. Make the right choice.

According to Peel Regional Police, impaired driving continues to be one of the top contributing factors for serious and fatal collisions. Between January 1 and November 24, 2025, there were 97 impaired driving-related collisions on Mississauga roads. To combat impaired driving in Mississauga, Peel Regional Police continues with the Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) program.

RIDE checks are conducted throughout the year, but the holiday campaign includes increased enforcement levels and additional officer deployment. As of November 24, 2025, Peel Regional Police has investigated 3,052 vehicles as part of the program.

How drivers can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season

  • Arrange a designated driver, use rideshare services or take public transit if you’re planning on consuming alcohol or using cannabis.
  • If you’re planning on celebrating away from home, consider staying the night.
  • Don’t let friends and family drive impaired.
  • Call 911 if you suspect someone is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Impaired driving puts everyone at risk. Plan ahead, stay sober behind the wheel and help keep Mississauga roads safe for all users.

To learn more about impaired driving, visit peelpolice.ca/en/safety-tips/road-safety.aspx

Learn more about road safety in Mississauga: mississauga.ca/roadsafety