ATIKOKAN – NEWS – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Atikokan have charged a local driver with impaired operation following a single-vehicle crash that occurred in the early morning hours of May 16, 2025.
At approximately 4:00 a.m., the OPP received a call from the driver, who reported their own vehicle had been involved in a collision on Highway 11 near Flanders Road. Responding officers located the driver at the scene and arranged for ambulance transport to hospital, where they were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Upon arrival, officers noted clear signs of impairment, and a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) was called in to conduct an assessment. The results of the evaluation confirmed the driver was impaired by drug use and unfit to operate a motor vehicle safely.
As a result, Shanna Kay GOSSELIN, 29, of Atikokan, has been charged with:
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Impaired Operation – Alcohol and Drugs
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Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Her driver’s licence was automatically suspended for 90 days, and the vehicle involved was impounded for 7 days.
The accused has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in the Atikokan Ontario Court of Justice on June 26, 2025.
Impaired Driving Comes at a High Cost
Driving impaired by drugs or alcohol isn’t just dangerous—it’s expensive. Here’s a breakdown of what a first-time impaired driving charge could cost you:
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Legal Fees: $2,000–$10,000 for representation in court
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Provincial Fines: Minimum $1,000 fine (more if there are aggravating factors)
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Licence Reinstatement Fee: $281
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Vehicle Impound Fees: Up to $1,000 depending on length and towing costs
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Mandatory Education or Treatment Program: $634
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Increased Auto Insurance: Rates may double or triple, or coverage may be denied entirely
👉 Total Estimated Cost: $15,000 or more—not including the long-term impact on your insurance, reputation, and ability to travel or find work.
Tips to Avoid an Impaired Driving Charge
With the Victoria Day long weekend and summer approaching, police will be increasing roadside enforcement. The best way to stay safe—and avoid serious consequences—is to plan ahead:
🚘 Use a Designated Driver: Choose someone who will commit to staying sober for the night.
📱 Use Rideshare or Taxi Services: Apps like U-Ride or local taxi lines are safer and cheaper than a DUI.
🚌 Take Transit or Stay Overnight: If you’re attending a gathering, plan to stay or get a safe ride home.
👀 Don’t Drive Under the Influence of Cannabis or Prescription Medications: Impairment isn’t just alcohol-related. Even legal substances can impair your ability to drive.
Did You Know?
Under Ontario’s strict impaired driving laws:
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If someone borrows your car and is caught impaired, YOU pay the impound fees.
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Impoundment terms can extend up to 45 days if the driver is already suspended.
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A criminal conviction can affect international travel, especially to the United States.
Be a responsible vehicle owner. Never lend your car to anyone who may drive impaired.
