LONG WEEKEND TRAFFIC INITITIVE RESULTS

Over 1500 Charges Laid

(SMITHS FALLS, ON) - 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