NORTHERN ONTARIO - There was a 611 per cent increase in seatbelt-related charges year over year.
Across Northwestern Ontario, 329 seatbelt-related charges were laid over the Easter long weekend compared to 37 in 2021. This includes charges for driver and passenger non-compliance and 10 accounts for driving while a child is not adequately secured.
The breakdown of seatbelt-related charges by detachment is as follows:
- Dryden - 37;
- Rainy River - 27;
- Greenstone - 15;
- Kenora - 27;
- Marathon - 10;
- Nipigon - 4;
- Red Lake - 4;
- Sioux Lookout - 10;
- Thunder Bay - 129; and
- Traffic Incident Management Enforcement Officers (Northwest Region-wide) - 60.
Northwest Region would like to remind all road users of the lifesaving value of seatbelts. It is essential to set a good example for teens and other young drivers and passengers by buckling up for every ride, ensuring they do too, and helping them form a life-long habit of wearing this important life-saving device.
Drivers are reminded to ensure they have proper (and properly installed) child car seats for babies, toddlers, etc.