Provincial police say risky behaviours continued during ‘Stop. Look. Live.’ Campaign

By Lee Griffi

Members of the Ontario Provincial Police West Region have concluded the "Stop. Look. Live." campaign, conducted from June 15-21.

Officers engaged in targeted enforcement and public education initiatives aimed at reducing high-risk driving behaviours at intersections.

“Despite these efforts, officers continue to observe a concerning number of motorists failing to comply with traffic laws designed to prevent serious and fatal collisions,” said OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk.

During the campaign period, police laid 354 charges and issued 126 warnings across West Region. Offences primarily included failing to stop at stop signs, failing to stop for red or amber lights and failing to yield the right-of-way.

“These behaviours remain among the leading contributing factors in intersection-related collisions. Collision data recorded during the campaign further underscores the ongoing risks at intersections,” added Sanchuk.

Police investigated a total of 46 intersection-related collisions, one of which resulted in a fatality. There were also 15 collisions resulting in injuries and 30 with damage to vehicles.

“Each of these incidents reflects the significant and often irreversible consequences that can result from a momentary lapse in judgment behind the wheel,” Sanchuk said.

Staff Sgt. Julie McLeod is with the West Region OPP traffic safety and marine unit. In a press release, she said the behaviours police continue to see at intersections are both concerning and preventable.

“Every failure to stop, every missed observation and every decision to rush through an intersection carries the potential for devastating consequences. These are not just traffic violations, they are choices that can result in serious injury or loss of life. We are asking all drivers to take that extra moment to stop, look and ensure it is safe before proceeding.”

Police said intersections continue to be one of the highest-risk environments on Ontario roadways and they are reminding all drivers that safe and attentive driving is essential at every intersection, every time.

Drivers are urged to come to a complete stop at stop signs, obey all traffic signals, yield the right-of-way when required and remain alert and focused at all times.