U.S. driver on Hwy. 17 struggled to maintain lane, had open bottle of whisky

A 37-year-old from the U.S. state of Wisconsin has been charged after police spotted a vehicle driving erratically on Highway 17 in North Shore Township, near Blind River, Ont.

Ontario Provincial Police stopped the eastbound vehicle around 9 p.m. Aug. 8. Blood tests later showed the suspect had three times the legal limit of alcohol in their bloodstream.

“The vehicle was having difficulty maintaining its lane and had varying speeds,” police said in a news release Friday.

“The driver was confused and could not provide necessary vehicle documentation or licence. An open bottle of partially drank whisky was also located in the vehicle.”

Police also noticed a strong smell of booze coming from the driver, who “exhibited obvious signs of impairment by alcohol.”

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The vehicle was towed and the Wisconsin suspect was charged with impaired driving.

The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Elliot Lake on Sept. 5.

“The OPP remind motorists that no amount of alcohol or drug is acceptable to consume and drive,” police said.

To report an impaired driver, dial 911 or contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.