Have a plan in action: MADD Windsor-Essex and police urge New Year’s revellers to not drink and drive

Windsor police are urging people to plan ahead and not drive impaired this New Year's Eve.

In a post on social media, officials say driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime that puts lives at risk, calling on revellers to plan ahead with a designated driver, Uber, taxi, or rideshare.

"Look out for others. Stop friends or family from driving impaired," police said. "One bad decision can lead to tragedy."

Meantime, Vets Cab is preparing for a busy New Year's Eve night as well.

President of Unifor Local 195, Emile Nabbout says everyone is looking forward to a great night, but that it's important for everyone to have a safe way to get home and plan ahead.

"We want this year, 2025 to start safely for everybody," Naboutt said.

According to Nabbout about 340 cabs will be available throughout the day and night to provide a safe and secure ride to and from celebrations.

"Our commitment here is to make sure we have enough drivers on the road and we're going to make sure people are not taking a chance to drink and drive. The consequences can be severe."

He said Vets Cab has implemented a number of enhancements over the years to keep passengers safe including 24/7 dispatch service, cab monitoring cameras for the entire journey, notification for customers with cab number and estimated arrival time and the option to prepay through the Vets Cab app.

However, Nabbout said it's important for the community to be cautious of unregulated or "pirate" rideshares.

"Those type of service put in a risk to the people that may not know, because they are not licensed, they're not legal. They don't have the appropriate insurance. They have no traceability."

General Manager Mohammad Kashash told CTV News New Year's Eve is one of the business nights of the year for cab drivers, followed by St. Patrick's Day. He said they want to keep the community safe on this busy night.

"Our main target for tonight and every time is the safety of our passengers, that's what's our main concern is," Kashash said.

"We always think about the safety. We always remind our drivers to be humble, to be nice... we expect most of the passengers would be drunk tonight, so they should know how to deal with them."

Kashash notes those looking to order a cab can call the dispatch line at 519-256-2621, or they can book it online.

For those hosting a New Year's Eve party, people can open an account and Vets Cab will designate drivers to be in the area to be readily available for partygoers throughout the night until 3 in the morning.

He added, "We want it to be a good night and safe night for everybody."

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Windsor-Essex Community Leader Chaouki Hamka said, "We are encouraging everyone to get involved in the fight against impaired driving by being responsible hosts and driving sober to and from your New Year's gatherings."

Hamka explained, "We want people to go out, we want people to celebrate, and we want people to have a great time. Just leave your car at home. And if you decide to drive, just make sure that you don't get in that vehicle."

He continued, "If you're impaired by alcohol and or drugs, find someone sober to drive your car home. A designated driving service, leave your car parked at your friend's house or in a parking lot overnight. There's a lot of options. There's zero excuse for anybody to get behind the wheel impaired."

Hamka said the key message from MADD for New Year's Eve is planning ahead.

"Have a plan right before that first sip, before that first toke. Have a plan in action to know how you're getting home safe."

~ With files from AM800 News.