Numerous drivers were charged on North Bay and surrounding area roadways this past holiday weekend.
Between October 6 and October 9, 2023, Members of the North Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) participated in a traffic initiative to bring awareness through education and enforcement to the "Big Four".
The "Big Four" consists of alcohol/drug impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding and lack of occupant restraints. These high-risk behaviours account for the majority of motor vehicle collision fatalities and are completely preventable.
As a result of the initiative, numerous charges were reported including the following;
· 52 speeding charges
· one Liquor Licence Control Act charge
· one Off Road Vehicles Act
· six Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act charges
· 17 other traffic related provincial offences
Along with the 77 charges, over 33 warnings were also issued.
Nine Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E) checks were also completed with 314 vehicles being checked, and 104 Mandatory Alcohol Screening demands being issued. These R.I.D.E checks resulted in one driver being issued a three-day driver's licence suspension and one commercial motor vehicle being placed out of service.
The North Bay OPP would like to remind drivers that safety is everyone's responsibility, and everyone has to do their part in keeping Ontario's roadways, trails, and waterways safe.