_ - Correction -_

JAMES BAY OPP RESPONDS TO SERIES OF COLLISIONS ON HIGHWAY 11

Cruiser had near miss, not collided with

(COCHRANE, ON) - Winter driving conditions have arrived and so have collisions on highways in the Cochrane Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) patrol area.

On Friday, November 7 at approximately 10:30 am, James Bay OPP responded to a tractor trailer in the ditch and blocking the eastbound lane on Highway 11 east of Smooth Rock Falls. The 30-year-old driver from Hamilton was charged with Careless Driving.

On Saturday, November 8 at approximately 5:00 am, while a vehicle was being removed from the ditch on Highway 11 east of Smooth Rock Falls, a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) approached the scene and was unable to stop, colliding with a tow truck and then stopping just short of contacting an OPP cruiser. Emergency lights were fully activated at the time. Both vehicles sustained minor damage. The 24-year-old driver from St. Andrews, MB was charged with Careless Driving.

Later that morning, at approximately 8:50 am, OPP responded to a CMV rollover on Highway 11 west of Highway 655. The vehicle was removed and the 28-year-old driver from Winnipeg, MB was charged with Careless Driving.

As winter conditions set in, motorists are reminded that slippery roads and reduced visibility require extra caution. Drivers should slow down, allow for increased stopping distances, and ensure their vehicles are properly equipped for winter, including the use of winter tires. Clearing all snow and ice from your vehicle, avoiding sudden braking, and planning extra time for travel are essential steps to prevent collisions.

Before heading out, check road conditions at https://511on.ca and monitor local updates. Let’s work together to keep our highways safe this season.