The county OPP are warning motorists they will be participating in a provincial traffic safety initiative focusing on seat belt compliance this holiday weekend.
OPP Constable Cheri Rockefeller reported that from April 3 to 6, officers will be dedicating their traffic safety efforts to seat belt compliance.
The lack of occupant restraint usage continues to be one of the big four causal factors that contribute to personal injury and fatal collisions investigated by the OPP. The other contributors most often seen as a factor in most collisions are aggressive driving, distracted driving, and impaired driving by alcohol and drugs.
County OPP will also be checking car seats. Many of the mistakes commonly found by police during car seat checks include:
– child not in the appropriate restraint;
– child not harnessed in the restraint correctly; and
– seat belts are not tight enough or cannot hold the car seat; and/or, tether straps are not used or used incorrectly.
Transport Canada recommends that children 12 and under should be properly restrained in the back seat, especially if there is an active passenger-side air bag.
Rockefeller added there is room for improvement with seat belt compliance in Wellington County.
County OPP Detachment Commander Inspector Scott Lawson said, “We need to thank those motorists who properly use one of the simplest and most effective pieces of safety equipment available to drivers and passengers in a motor vehicle. These safety-minded motorists are truly making a positive difference on our roadways.”
The fine for not wearing a seat belt is $240 and two demerit points for a seat belt infraction, including car seats.
Police urge everyone to buckle up because it can save lives.
