Ahead of the holiday weekend, police are warning people to stay safe on area roads and waterways and to eliminate risky or poor driving behaviour.
The warning comes as there were eight deaths on OPP-patrolled roads last weekend. So far this year there have been 128 deaths on roads monitored by provincial police.
Last Friday, a multi-vehicle crash resulted in the deaths of four people, including one child, on Highway 400. The highway was closed for around 18 hours while officers were on the scene.
“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 Dep.-Cmsr. Brad Blair.
“We are counting on all motorists to drive defensively and avoid all manners of risk so that all road users can travel safely.”
Over the long weekend, speeding and all other forms of aggressive driving will be some of the behaviours officers will have a watchful eye on, as highways and roads see some of the busiest traffic volumes of the year.
Boaters are reminded they should always be wearing a life-jacket and should carry safety equipment onboard. Police also recommend keeping a chart compass with you and to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Citizens are also encouraged to contact police if they suspect someone is impaired.
