Preventable motorcycle fatalities occurred over long weekend

May 27, 2016 · 0 Comments

Three motorcycle drivers and one motorcycle passenger were killed in preventable collisions on OPP-patrolled roads over the long Victoria Day weekend.
OPP reports this brings the motorcycle fatality total for 2016 to nine. Police are concerned the death toll will mount further on Ontario highways, unless all drivers respect each other.
They urge people to drive defensively. Leave adequate space between all vehicles. Respect the speed limit and never drive impaired. Remember that motorcycles are smaller, but increasingly popular. Car drivers need to check carefully for motorcycles and all vehicles before changing lanes or turning.
As the days are getting longer, more Ontarians enjoy getting out and participating in leisure outdoor activities on provincial roads, waterways and trails. This is especially true now with the warmer weather arriving. With the increase in outdoor activities, OPP historically sees an increase in the number of serious injuries and fatalities.
In April, OPP investigated 26 fatalities, which is the highest number for this month since 2009. This year, OPP officers have already investigated eight marine related fatalities and the boating season is only just beginning.
In Ontario, summer is an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors, but these activities need to be enjoyed responsibly and with everyone’s personal safety in mind. Alcohol, drugs, aggressive behaviour and distraction continue to be causal factors in many of these tragedies. Those who are travelling by car, boat, ATV or motorcycle must remember to wear a seatbelt, life jacket or helmet.
OPP will be out patrolling the highways, waterways and trails this summer, trying to ensure everyone’s safety. But officers cannot do it alone. Those who see a suspected impaired, dangerous or distracted driver are asked to call 9-1-1. Remember, it is everyone’s collective responsibility to speak-up to ensure public safety.