It’s a choice. Make the right one!

OPP News Release

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Northeastern, ON - Death continues its peril on our North East Region OPP patrolled highways, trails and waterways. North East Region experienced a total of 65 fatalities in 2009, not far off the previous year in 2008 with 64 fatalities. “I regret each and every one of the crash scenes I attend and the considerable degree of the aftermath endured by the loved ones of each life lost”, states Inspector Mark Andrews, Commander of the NER Highway Safety Division.

The OPP advocates that the safe operation of motorized vehicles is a team effort with our driving and riding public. Each driver and passenger alike is responsible for each decision that they make when it comes to driving behaviour. Tired? Revaluate when you travel. Make sure you are well rested or travel with a licensed passenger. Want to enjoy an evening out? Plan ahead to avoid the risks associated with driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Running late? Allow yourself enough time to get to your destination on time without using excessive speed which can lead to dire consequences. Passengers also have safety efforts they can contribute when riding along – speak up when you have concerns with a driver’s behaviour. Often a friendly safety reminder is all it takes from a caring passenger.

The OPP in 2010 will continue to focus on the ‘Big Three’: impaired driving, aggressive driving and occupant restraints. These are the major contributing factors to the fatalities in our Province. OPP officers will remain proactive in raising the motoring public’s awareness of the importance of safe driving behaviour. By working together we will prevent further personal injury and senseless deaths resulting in a reduction in fatal statistics.

Changes introduced in 2009 to the Highway Traffic Act to help make our Province roadways the safest in the world included:

• Bill 203 – Changes to the HTA Drinking and Driving Law
• Speed Limiters on Commercial Vehicles
• Countering Distracted Driving and Promoting Green Transportation Act

Further changes in 2010 will be fine amount increases to various driving infractions.

“I encourage the motoring public to consider making small changes in their driving behaviour as part of their New Years resolutions. This type of decision will reflect significant safety rewards for all of us when travelling”, states OPP North East Region’s Chief Superintendent, Scott Tod.

It’s a choice. Make the right one!

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