OPP heightens enforcement to stop increase in accidents

The Ontario Provincial Police recently had some grim news to report. Despite being less than a month into 2012, the number of people who have died on OPP-patrolled highways has more than doubled when compared with the same time period in 2011. So far, 17 people have lost their lives in automotive crashes since January 1, nine more than last year.

While the OPP says it's difficult to determine what factors have contributed to the high fatality rate, treacherous weather conditions appear to be at least partially responsible. As a result, the OPP says it will be heightening its enforcement efforts on Ontario's most highly trafficked streets, hoping that its presence will encourage motorists to alter how their driving.

Provincial authorities indicate enforcement will not only focus on making sure motorists adjust their driving techniques so they can better react to slippery roads, but it will also center on what have been the four leading causes of injuries and death on Ontario's roadways, namely aggressive driving, distracted driving, impaired driving and not wearing seat belts.

"The OPP is committed to addressing this disturbing start to the year with heightened education and enforcement," said Don Bell, chief superintendent and commander of the Highway Safety Division for the OPP. "We intend to use every available means at our disposal to stem this needless loss of lives."

Larry Beechey, provincial commander of Traffic Safety and Operational Support for the OPP, emphasized the need for motorists to heighten their awareness of weather conditions, as failing to do so has led to numerous crashes and auto insurance claims that could have been avoided.

"We must understand that it is frequently the driver's failure to adjust to the road and weather conditions that is the cause of many of these tragic crashes," said Beechey. "Ontario's winters can make for some of the most challenging driving in Canada. Road conditions in the winter are predictable, yet drivers of all ages are often taken by surprise."

Driving expert Ian Law confirmed this to be true, citing in a recent column in a Toronto newspaper that not slowing down when traction is reduced is one of the most common mistakes drivers make in the winter.

Another frequent error in judgement motorists make is not adequately assessing road conditions. Law says that all too often, motorists get into their car without ever having checked local weather and traffic reports. Law noted that during the winter months, they should be sure to listen to their local news radio and television news channels for the latest updates on what drivers need to do. If the roadways are slick, they may need to alter their typical route or arrange for alternative transportation.

If staying off the roads during difficult weather isn't possible, drivers should be sure to let others know where they are going, and let people know when they should arrive. Other winter driving tips include always having an emergency kit and a cell phone to call for help.

Even if traffic and weather reports give the all-clear, motorists should still drive with caution, as parts of the road may be glazed with black ice. Law says drivers should adjust their vision techniques as a result. For instance, Instead of looking at what's immediately in front of them, they should try and get into the habit of looking farther up the road. This will enable them to adjust their driving so that they can avoid anything that may cause them to lose control.