Over 700 Ontarians have died since 2005 in crashes involving tractor trailers, a number the OPP is looking to halt through Operation Corridor.
The 24-hour traffic safety initiative targets truck drivers on Ontario's highways. OPP will be out in full force offering safety tips to the drivers of the commercial vehicles .
In 2014 alone there were 6,140 crashes involving transports. A total of 69 people lost their lives. Of the dead, 65 were travelling in vehicle involved in a crash with the transport, compared to the four transport truck drivers who lost their lives.
Over and above the increased risk of death and serious injuries, a collision on a major highway involving a large truck often results in a highway closure that can last for many hours," says OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair. "This has a significant impact on the movement of traffic and goods, making these types of collisions among the most disruptive and socially and economically costly."
OPP say it is the drivers responsibility to keep themselves and the road safe for all users. Drivers need to keep an eye out for smaller vehicles while making lane changes or any type of movement.
Operation Corridor runs from June 16-17.