Switching drivers leads to two impaired charges in northwestern Ont.

Two men from Fort Frances who switched seats in a McDonald's parking lot were both charged with impaired driving. (OPP photo)

Switching drivers in the McDonald’s parking lot in Fort Frances landed both operators in custody for impaired, Ontario Provincial Police say.

An officer spotted someone walking into the restaurant in the community around 12:30 a.m. July 4.

Police “observed a driver with unsteady gait enter the McDonald’s Restaurant in Fort Frances,” police said in a news release July 9 that was headlined, ‘McDouble impaired not available at drive thru.’

Hopped in the driver’s seat

“A second occupant in the vehicle then took over control when the original driver came out. A traffic stop was conducted, and both drivers failed a roadside screening device.”

Both men were taken to the OPP detachment for further testing.

The suspects, ages 23 and 24, both from Fort Frances, have been charged with driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs, being novice drivers with alcohol in their bloodstream and driving a vehicle with an open container of alcohol.

Both drivers had their licences suspended for 90 days and the vehicle was impounded for seven days.

The pair were released by police and have an Aug. 13 court date in Fort Frances to speak to the charges.

“A reminder to the public that proper planning prevents impaired driving,” police said.

“Don’t wait to designate a sober driver after you start drinking. Choose your designated driver when everyone is sober and get home safely.”