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OPP say the ‘Big Four’ were contributing factors in 78 per cent of road deaths investigated by provincial officers so far this year.
The Big Four refers to the four main causes of motor vehicle collision deaths: distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and lack of occupant restraint.
Comparative statistics as of Oct. 5, 2014 applying to OPP jurisdiction:
Impaired-related deaths: 34 in 2014 compared to 59 in 2013.
Distraction-related deaths: 45 in 2014 compared to 68 in 2013.
Deaths related to lack of occupant restraint: 38 in 2014 compared to 49 in 2013.
Speed-related deaths: 51 in 2014 compared to 38 in 2013.
Marine deaths: 14 in 2014 compared to 20 in 2013.
Off-road vehicle deaths: 8 in 2014 compared to 15 in 2013.
OPP Sgt Kerry Schmidt says they are taking these stats very seriously.
“Speeding and aggressive driving is something we will be focusing on, to ensure that the message is getting home.”
When it comes to distracted driving, Schmidt says it’s still a major concern for police on the roads.
“Although the fatal numbers are down, we’re still seeing a vast number of people driving while distracted and it continues to be a leading cause of death on our provincial highways.”
Schmidt says police will have a focus on ‘The Big 4’ during their long weekend traffic campaign.
Agencies/Canadajournal
