OPP kicks off Road Safety Week with startling statistics

So far this year, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have reported 76 road collision fatalities. This statistic was released ahead of Canada Road Safety Week, which runs from May 18-24, 2021.

According to a release from OPP, a significant number of the road deaths so far in 2021 are attributed to driving behaviours that are the focus of this week’s campaign: aggressive, inattentive/distracted and alcohol/drug-impaired drivers, and unbuckled vehicle occupants.

“The number of innocent people killed every year on our roads because of dangerous, careless driving is staggering,” said OPP Chief Superintendent Rohan Thompson, Commander, Highway Safety Division. “As a driver, every person travelling with, or around you stands to pay the price for the risks you take behind the wheel. So do their families. How you drive is not just your business, it’s everyone’s business. Please drive safely and ensure everyone buckles up.”

During the week-long campaign, the OPP will maintain a strong presence on highways and roads as they join policing partners across Canada to enforce and educate road users about traffic laws.  

Quick facts provided by the OPP:

Fatalities on OPP-patrolled roads over the past 10 years (2011-2020):

• Inattentive-related fatalities:      719
• Speed-related:                              679
• Alcohol/drug-related:                  615
• Seat belt-related:                         565

Canada Road Safety Week is led by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) and supports Canada’s Road Safety Strategy 2025