OPP remind public that seatbelt can show up for you only if you wear it

(ORILLIA, ON) - The choice to wear or not wear a seatbelt is an important life-and-death decision that left dozens of families mourning the loss of a loved one in 2024.

Failure to wear a seatbelt caused, or was a contributing factor in, the deaths of 60 people involved in collisions on OPP-patrolled roads last year.

In its ongoing effort to reduce the number of occupant restraint-related deaths and injuries on roads, the OPP is conducting a seatbelt safety campaign over the Easter long weekend. Officers will be checking vehicles on roadways throughout the province, ensuring drivers and passengers are making seatbelt safety an important part of their long-weekend travels.

"Seatbelts and proper use of child car seats are more than just safety equipment, says OPP commissioner Thomas Carrique. “They are critical lifelines for you and your family every minute you spend on the road.

“Even the safest of drivers are at risk of other motorists involving them and their passengers in a collision. Being safely restrained in your seat is the safest place to be during a crash. Please buckle up and ensure everyone else in the vehicle does so too."

"A seatbelt can save your life only if you wear it,” says Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “It's important to ensure you and all occupants of your vehicle are securely fastened. Not only will you avoid a fine, but more importantly, taking this simple step saves lives. Do your part in keeping Ontario safe."

"Seatbelts save lives - it's that simple,” says Ontario transportation minister Prabmeet Sarkaria. “This Easter long weekend, let's all do our part to keep Ontario's roads the safest in North America by taking a moment to buckle up and reminding those around us to do the same."

QUICK FACTS
 

• Relying on an airbag alone is not enough. If you don't wear your seatbelt, you could be thrown into a rapidly opening frontal air bag during a collision, the force of which could seriously injure or even kill you.
• The safest car seat for your child is one that accommodates your child's age, height and weight, has a National Safety Mark label and is properly installed.
• The OPP is committed to keeping people safe on more than 130,000 kilometres of roadway and more than 99,000 kilometres of waterways and trails throughout Ontario.