Speed-related deaths have more than doubled in 2014: OPP

Speed-related deaths have more than doubled in the past year, according to the OPP.

New data released by provincial police suggest speed related deaths have double in 2014, when compared to the same period last year.

As of June 15, there have been 113 fatalities on OPP patrolled roads; of those, speed was a factor in 33 deaths. Distracted driving is second with 24 and impaired driving with 12.

“Last year speed was a factor in more than 11,000 collisions we investigated so there is no question that speed threatens the safety of all road users,” said deputy commissioner Brad Blair, Provincial Commander of Traffic Safety and Operational Support.

OPP released the statistics ahead of the Canada Day long weekend. They’re reminding the public to be extra vigilant and safe on area roads and waterways.

“As people make travel plans for the upcoming Canada Day weekend, drivers need to remember that speeding, following too closely, making unsafe lane changes, road rage and failing to yield right-of-way are all aggressive driving behaviours that injure and kill people of all ages every year.”