(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
A long weekend traffic enforcement initiative resulted in over 1,500 charges being laid on roads and highways across eastern Ontario.
The goal of the Labour Day weekend enforcement was to increase and improve safety on the roadways, waterways and trails.
The preliminary results show that Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers in East Region laid 1,576 charges, including:
Speeding – 893
Seatbelt violations – 92
Failing to have proper insurance – 83
Stunt driving – 42
Impaired driving – 36
Alcohol or cannabis accessible to the driver – 13
Distracted driving – 5
Marine officers laid a total of 19 charges under the Canada Shipping Act for offences related to a lack or life jackets or other safety equipment.
“Speeding is one of the top contributing factors in fatal collisions and is 100% preventable. The OPP has a simple message: slow down, buckle up and don’t drive impaired. Our members also continue to see many drivers who have no car insurance. This is a major concern as that insurance is there to help you and others in the event of a serious collision.” – Acting Superintendent Stephan Neufeld, OPP East Region
Highway and road safety is a shared responsibility. OPP officers across eastern Ontario are on the roads 24/7, looking for those who engage in dangerous driving habits. If you think lives are at risk because someone is driving dangerously, or you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 9-1-1 immediately. You may be saving lives.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
