(Huron County, ON) – Thousands of motorists and boating enthusiasts will be on the roads and waterways celebrating what will likely be the nicest long weekend of the summer. The OPP is hoping that this Civic Weekend will be a safe one for everyone.
The Huron OPP is pleading with the public to drive safe and sober and obey the rules of the roads and water. Those rules are in place for your safety and are not intended to cut into your fun. The heavy hitters include speeding as well as other forms of aggressive driving, alcohol, stop signs and seatbelts.
With increased traffic expect delays – even plan for them by leaving a bit earlier and being mentally prepared that the trip could be hectic. Getting angry and aggressive does not make the traffic flow any better. It also leads to driving mistakes that can cost lives.
Alcohol and vehicles or boats do not mix. Save your drinking for times when you can stay where you are. If you need to travel after drinking, call a cab or have a designated driver in place. Those mistakes can cost lives.
Stop signs are not “suggestions†for when you feel like stopping. The law states that your vehicle must come to a complete stop in the proper location at a stop sign before proceeding. Stopped means NO forward movement. If there is no traffic coming, that is not a signal the stop sign has become optional. Many collisions occur at intersections due to drivers failing to stop or failing to ensure the way was clear before proceeding. Take the time to stop and REALLY look. Don’t try to beat traffic. Those driving mistakes can cost lives.
Statistics have proven time and again that you have a much better chance of surviving a collision if you are wearing a seat belt. A driver is responsible for ensuring that all passengers under 16 are belted in properly. All occupants of a vehicle 16 and over are responsible for themselves. Failing to belt up is a driving mistake that can cost lives.
OPP remind all boaters of the importance of ensuring every vessel is equipped with lifesaving equipment including wearing your personal floatation device or lifejacket at all times. A lifejacket is not an item that you can just grab and put on in an emergency. The Huron OPP vessel will be out on the waterways to ensure drivers are following the laws.
Safety begins before an engine is ever started. We want everyone to avoid those mistakes that can cost lives. Be responsible for yourself, your passengers as well as other motorists on the road.
From everyone at the Huron OPP, have a safe and fun long weekend.