June 17, 2015
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(SOUTHERN BRUCE COUNTY, ON) – A nine-year-old boy and a 17-year-old youth are among nine people who have died in recent Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) incidents investigated by the OPP.
With one death having occurred in April, seven in May and one in June of 2015, this is the highest number of ORV deaths this early in the season since 2009. This time last year, there was one ORV fatality in OPP jurisdiction.
Investigations into these fatalities revealed that alcohol was involved in five of the incidents, speeding was a factor in three of them, and five of the deceased were not wearing a helmet at the time of the incident. The nine-year-old who died was the driver of the ORV, and in a separate incident, the 17-year-old who died was a passenger.
“While none of these reported fatal crashes took place in the South Bruce detachment area, all ORV operators have to follow the rules and ride safely," says inspector Dana Earley, detachment commander, South Bruce OPP. "Choosing to wear a helmet, riding sober, and obeying speed limits, are all decisions that you make, so choose wisely. Don’t take risks that could cost your life and devastate your family."
With many months remaining in the off-roading season, the OPP is urging ORV enthusiasts to wear a helmet every time, regardless of how short a ride they plan on taking. Don’t include alcohol or drugs in an ORV outing, and keep your speed under control so that you don’t lose control of your vehicle.
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