NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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BLIND RIVER - On Friday, Apr. 14 to Monday, Apr. 17, 2017, the East Algoma Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) will be conducting an Easter Long Weekend Seatbelt Campaign throughout the Blind River, Thessalon and Elliot Lake areas.
Officers will present a high profile along the Highway 17 corridor and Highways 108, 129, 548, 639, 538, 557,546, 554, and 638.
OPP officers hope to see all drivers and passengers safely buckled in rather than have to issue tickets for seat belt violations.
All Ontario motor vehicle drivers and passengers must wear a seatbelt that are properly adjusted and securely fastened. Drivers are also responsible for ensuring all children who are not big enough or old enough to use a seatbelt are secured in an appropriate child car seat or booster seat.
If you wear a seatbelt properly, you are more likely to survive a crash. Evidence shows that Ontario's seatbelt law works and has helped strengthen our leading road safety record.
If you are driving, you can face a fine if you or anyone in your vehicle is under the age 16 is not wearing a seatbelt or secured in a proper child seat. If you are convicted, you will:
- be fined between $200 and $1,000
- receive two demerit points - demerit points remain on your driving record for two years
Also note that you can also be fined for having a broken seatbelt, even if it is not being used when you're stopped by a police officer.
Members of the East Algoma OPP are actively monitoring the "Big 4" driving behaviours; impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt usage.
Buckle up and have a safe Easter Weekend!
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