(NOELVILLE, ON) – Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Noelville Detachment are reminding community members to enjoy their Labour Day weekend by taking safety seriously. Every driver has a responsibility to direct their entire attention to driving safely. The results of distracted driving are sometimes catastrophic.
This year alone the Noelville OPP has investigated 97collisions. Some of the factors relating to these collisions were attributed to 11 excessive speeds, two (2) related to alcohol and 14 related to inattentive driving. The upward distracted driving trend in Ontario continues to be a growing concern for all motorists traveling on our highways. In 2013, the OPP laid 19,000 distracted driving charges in Ontario, compared to 16,007 distracted driving charges in 2012.
The fine for using hand-held phones and entertainment devices while driving is $280. Distracted driving incidents can also lead to more serious offences like Careless Driving, pursuant to the Highway Traffic Act. The solution to avoiding any tragedies is quite avoidable. By following safe driving practices we can all enjoy our long weekend with our family and friends without injury or death.
Officers would like to thank all Ontarians who take the time to drive defensively, are courteous, patient, wear the proper safety equipment and don’t mix alcohol while operating any vehicle. Your contributions are to be commended.
We ask that all vehicle operators be part of the solution, together we can make a difference.