June 29, 2016
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(SOUTHERN BRUCE COUNTY, ON) – In the wake of a tragic weekend that saw eight people die in four separate collisions on OPP-patrolled roads, the OPP is appealing to drivers who plan on heading out this coming long weekend, to avoid all forms of risk that could contribute to further loss of life on Ontario roads.
Two of the weekend incidents involved multiple fatalities, with one of the collisions claiming four lives and another that resulted in the death of a motorcyclist and his passenger. The deaths bring the number of people killed on OPP-patrolled roads so far this year, to 128 (as of June 26, 2016).
With the Canada Day Long Weekend just days away, this recent rash of fatal crashes is an important reminder of the significant toll poor driving behaviour takes on road-users.
Over the long weekend (July 1-3), speeding and all other forms of aggressive driving will be among the behaviours that OPP officers will have a watchful eye on, as highways and roads see some of the busiest traffic volumes of the year.
Last year, officers laid more than 250,000 speeding charges on OPP-patrolled roads, and an additional 4,000 charges for racing - one of the most dangerous behaviours which involves driving more than 50 km/h over the posted speed limit (Highway Traffic Act, Section 172).
“Whether you are speeding, tail-gating, weaving in and out of traffic or accelerating when approaching a yellow traffic light, aggressive driving is a deliberate behaviour that costs people their lives every year," says OPP deputy commissioner Brad Blair, provincial commander, Traffic Safety and Operational Support. "Ontario roads will be very busy this weekend and we are counting on all motorists to drive defensively and avoid all manners of risk so that all road users can travel safely.”
“As many of us begin our summer holidays, it is important that we all do our part to keep Ontario’s roads safe," says David Orazietti, Ontario minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services. "Everyone wants to reach his/her destination without harm. Impaired, aggressive and distracted driving take the lives of far too many Ontarians every year. This summer, I urge everyone to pay attention, be safe and respect the rules of the road and each other.”
With boating and off-roading expected to be popular activities over the weekend, the OPP is reminding the public that officers will be out on waterways and trails, ensuring that boaters and off-roaders are observing the law and keeping themselves safe.
Helpful Links
Tips To Avoid Aggressive Driving Situations
Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
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