According to Ontario Provincial Province, there has been an increase in the charges on OPP-patrolled roads by as much as 4 per cent over the same period last year, but a decline of 38 per cent in distracted driver charges.
This shows that the number of irresponsible drivers is still increasing despite awareness campaigns as well as stiff penalties.
According to recently release results in four categories that OPP monitors the number of charges in speeding has increased to 5494 in 2015 as compared to 4974 in 2014. The OPP charged 77 people with racing in 2015 as compared to 67 in 2014, 464 for seabelts in 2015 as compared to 459 in 2014 and 96 impaired in 2015 as compared to 91 in 2014.
The police have revealed that their recent long weekend focus on reducing the number of distracted driving-related charges may have made a difference. The number of distracted driving charges was down by 38 per cent over the same time last year, but still police report laying 407 charges against inattentive drivers.
From the beginning of the year until September 6, 2015, the number of collisions caused by distracted drivers is up 20 percent over the same period last year.
Police are also reporting that there were two fatal collisions this weekend that resulted in four deaths on OPP-patrolled roadways. Alcohol was a factor in both collisions.
“These long weekend statistics are alarming. OPP officers will remain diligent in their efforts to make safety a priority on Ontario’s roads, trails and waterways. I encourage everyone to stay focused behind the wheel, and make smart decisions that could help save a life.” Chief Supt. Chuck Cox, Acting Deputy Commissioner, Traffic Safety and Operational Support
