Photo by B. Shakyaver
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) laid more than 19,000 traffic and marine charges during its Canada Day week enforcement campaign as officers targeted dangerous driving across Ontario.
According to preliminary figures, the OPP issued 19,133 charges while patrolling roads, trails and waterways during the busy holiday period.
Speeding accounted for the largest number of offences, with 8,603 charges laid. Officers also issued 1,454 seatbelt charges, 412 impaired driving charges, 311 stunt driving charges, 243 distracted driving charges, 49 helmet-related charges, and 11 marine safety equipment charges.
The OPP said increased traffic during the Canada Day week made enforcement efforts especially important to help reduce crashes and keep travellers safe.
Police reminded motorists, boaters and trail users that safety is everyone’s responsibility. The OPP encouraged people to make responsible choices, including obeying speed limits, wearing seatbelts and avoiding impaired or distracted driving.
The OPP also thanked drivers and passengers who made safety a priority, saying those choices help prevent avoidable tragedies on Ontario’s roads and waterways throughout the summer.
