OPP report that half-a-century later, Ontario's seatbelt law still saves lives

(ORILLIA, ON) - With Ontario's seatbelt law heading into its 51st year, the OPP reports that nearly one-in-four road fatalities it investigates still involve someone who was not wearing a seatbelt.

Dealing with dozens of deaths linked to the lack of seatbelt use every year, the OPP recognizes that what makes these incidents even more tragic for the surviving families is learning that their loved ones made the choice to not wear their seatbelts before heading out on the road.

"In 2025, the OPP responded to 41 road fatalities in which lack of seatbelt use was either the cause or a contributing factor," says OPP commissioner Thomas Carrique. "At any time, you can become involved in a collision caused by another driver. The single most important thing you can do to protect yourself during a crash, is to ensure you and all other vehicle occupants are properly buckled in."

Over the Easter long weekend, OPP officers are conducting a province-wide seatbelt campaign, hoping to see all drivers and passengers make the right choice by buckling up.

This includes ensuring all children are properly secured in the appropriate child car seat, booster seat or seatbelt for their weight, height and age. People are also encouraged to reinforce with their children and other family members the importance of making seatbelt use a life-long habit.

"Too many lives are lost to something entirely preventable," says Ontario solicitor general Michael Kerzner. "Buckling up takes seconds, but it can mean the difference between making it home or not. Seatbelts save lives, it is that simple. I thank the OPP for its continued leadership in education and enforcement, especially during this busy long weekend, helping keep families safe on roads and highways across Ontario."

"Wearing a seatbelt takes only a few seconds, but it can save your life and your family's," says Ontario transportation minister Prabmeet Sarkaria. "This Easter weekend, and every day, help protect Ontario by buckling up and making sure every passenger is properly secured before every trip."

DID YOU KNOW?
 

• During a collision, being thrown into a rapidly-opening frontal air bag when you are not wearing a seatbelt can carry enough force to seriously injure or even kill you.
• The OPP issued 13,560 seatbelt charges in 2025
• Failure to wear a seatbelt carries a fine between $200 and $1,000 and two demerit points (demerit points remain on your driving record for two years)