OPP raising alarm rising road fatalities due to lack of seatbelt use

The OPP is reporting an increase in the number of road fatalities in which individuals were not wearing a seatbelt.

There have been 34 so far in 2018 compared with 30 at this time last year.

Penalties for driving without a seatbelt can reach up to $1,000 and two demerit points.

Officials are reminding motorists that an airbag is not meant to replace a seatbelt and that catastrophic injury can occur even when it deploys.

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“Regardless of technological advances in vehicle safety, a seat belt remains your first line of defence and your best chance of surviving a collision,” Brad Blair, Provincial Commander, Traffic Safety and Operational Support, said in a statement. “While air bags are a second line of defence, they will not restrain you. Only your seat belt can hold you in place. Whether you are a driver or passenger, don’t let anyone in a vehicle be without their seat belt properly fastened.”

The OPP says it will be out in full force this week as part of its’ Fall Seat Belt Campaign.