Some sobering statistics as the Ontario Provincial Police launch 'Operation Impact' this weekend to target unsafe driving behaviours.
The OPP report 216 fatal vehicle collisions that have claimed the lives of 239 people so far this year.
Heading into the Thanksgiving weekend, vehicle collisions on OPP-patrolled roads sit at 53,036, up from last year when collisions had reached 52,676 by this time.
Speed is the lead causal factor, with 46 deaths attributed to this aggressive driving behaviour. Lack of seat belt use among drivers and passengers accounts for 44 fatalities. Driver inattention has been linked to 42 deaths, and 33 people died in crashes that involved alcohol and/or drugs.
Those who are travelling by vehicle this weekend should take note that Friday is the day of the week that marks the highest number of road deaths this year (42), followed by Saturday (37), Sunday (36) and Monday (33).
"Before you head out this Thanksgiving Long Weekend, as a driver, please remember that every motorist, passenger, pedestrian and cyclist has the right to be safe and that safe roads start with you. As a passenger, always remember to wear your seat belt," said Deputy Commissioner Rose DiMarco, Provincial Commander, Traffic Safety and Operational Support.