OPP look to crack down on dangerous driving with new campaign

West Region OPP just launched a new campaign that aims to reduce dangerous driving on roadways.

The “Drive Smart – Keep It Safe” traffic campaign runs until Sunday. They’re trying to stop aggressive drivers, speeding, stunt driving and the number of modified cars out on the road.

Manager of traffic safety and marine for OPP West Region, Inspector Mike McConnell, told 570 NewsRadio that they are seeing a continuous increase in these types of driving behaviours.

“In West Region, so far this year we’ve had 91 fatalities on OPP policed highways. A portion of those are related to speeding or aggressive driving,” said McConnell.

About 21 per cent of those fatalities are from speeding collisions. West Region OPP have also laid 988 charges for stunt racing so far this year.

“We’re seeing an increase in modified vehicles and modified in a way where they’re unfit for the road,” said McConnell.

Vehicles are considered modified if they sit too low to the ground, if the manufacturer’s exhaust was removed for noise or if things like strobe lights are added.

“With that type of driving behaviour on roads that continually get busier, its just unsafe,” added McConnell.

McConnell says drivers will noticed more traffic enforcement officers, use more aerial enforcement to determine speeds and are asking the public to call them when they see these behaviours.