The Civic Day weekend can be a road hazard due simply to the volume of traffic, let alone drivers rushing to their destinations, or driving under the influence of something. But read the next sentence slowly. There were nine vehicle-related fatalities on the long weekend last year. Imagine ceasing to exist simply because you were distracted or speeding in your car. “As first responders, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers see the devastating consequences of poor driving decisions. Traffic enforcement is about preventing tragedies and creating safer roads for everyone. “This weekend let’s all work together to make safety a priority,” Karen Meyer, Dep. Comm. of OPP’s Traffic Safety and Operational Support. The OPP is reminding drivers that safe driving means paying attention, wearing a seatbelt, slowing down, driving sober and moving over for emergency vehicles. During last year’s Civic Day long weekend, many drivers made unsafe choices, resulting in 3,514 speeding charges, 512 seatbelt related charges, 77 distracted driving charges and 204 impaired driving charges. “While the OPP and our emergency responders work around the clock to protect Ontarians, every one of us has a role to play in preventing tragedies before they happen. Together, we can help ensure everyone arrives home safely,” said Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario. When an emergency vehicle approaches with flashing lights activated, drivers are expected to slow down and move to the right side of the road. If an emergency vehicle with their lights activated is stopped at the side of the road, drivers are expected to slow down and move over a lane, if it is safe to do so. It’s the law. Last year, OPP laid 170 charges against drivers who did not comply with Ontario’s Slow Down, Move Over law. “As we get ready to enjoy the Civic Day long weekend, I encourage everyone to make road safety their top priority,” said Hon. Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Whether you’re travelling across the province or staying close to home, simple choices like slowing down and moving over for emergency vehicles, wearing a seatbelt and never driving impaired can save lives. Together, let’s do our part to ensure everyone arrives safely and enjoys a safe long weekend.”
