Crossing the Canada/U.S. Border while drunk (perhaps by mistake) resulting in criminal DUI charges

One relatively common type of DUI/DWI related charge we see comes from people in the U.S. who are impaired and mistakenly end up crossing the border into Canada. While the impairment does not help even sober people make this mistake every day. It is extremely easy to not pay attention, get distracted, lost, and end up on the bridge to Canada where it is illegal to turn around (U-Turn) and go back.

The most common DUI crossing locations we get calls for are:

1. Peace Bridge (Buffalo, NY and Fort Erie Canada)
2. Niagara Falls
3. Lewiston–Queenston Bridge
4. Detroit-Windsor Tunnel
5. Ambassador Bridge, Windsor and Detroit

There are many other border crossings between Ontario, Canada and the USA but these ones tend to be the most common for drivers to mistakenly attempt to drive across while drunk.

A lot of the people being charged are U.S. Citizens who were lost, confused, and not intending to try to enter Canada at the time of arrest. They may have lacked proper ID (Passport) or had been carrying illegal weapons or contraband at the time of the arrest at the border. They may face charges under the Customs Act and the Criminal Code. They may be held in jail and have problems obtaining bail.

Impaired driving is one of the most common offences at the border, but firearms offences and drug crimes are also sometimes involved. The initial lack of proper paperwork may lead to a DUI and complete examination of the person and their car which can easily result in additional charges. This may all have stemmed from them taking the wrong turn and ending up at the Canadian border by accident.

The CBSA will conduct a very thorough examination of all people attempting to cross the border and those suspected of impaired driving will be subject to additional scrutiny.


Call us today.
You don't have to jeopardize your future or waste thousands of dollars on excessive legal fees. We provide effective and affordable lawyer representation for those charged with impaired driving offences throughout Ontario.

Have a skilled criminal lawyer who focuses on impaired driving related charges protect you and your future from the stigma and consequences of a criminal record.





Are you a lawyer? If you are defending an impaired driving related case and are looking for expert advice regarding possible defences, case strategies, and information release management call us at: 647-228-5969.

Please note: We do not accept legal aid certificate cases. All clients are handled on a private retainer only.

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