Distributed on behalf of the Quinte Region Traffic Coalition
Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/October 25, 2023
On Monday October 23, partners from the Quinte Region Traffic Coalition (QRTC), including Lennox & Addington OPP, Sharbot Lake OPP, MTO Kingston District Commercial Enforcement Unit, and East Region West TIME Team, participated in the first ‘Safe on 7’ enforcement initiative focusing on the Highway 7 corridor. Throughout the day, officers issued 113 charges, with the majority being for speeding. A number of commercial motor vehicles were also taken out of service for safety and equipment violations.
“The wow moment of the day was a driver stopped doing 146 km/h in a posted 80 km/h zone. This was particularly alarming considering this is a two-lane highway with numerous curves, small intersecting roads & trails, and lots of wildlife; not to mention the other drivers on the road. A collision with another vehicle at that speed would involve forces in the range of 220 to 240 km/h on a person,” stated Provincial Constable Scott Woodburn.
This one-day enforcement initiative is part of the QRTC’s ongoing effort to encourage safe driving practices across Hastings and Prince Edward Counties. Throughout the year, partners will continue to work to prevent the “big four” road safety issues that are the main contributors to motor vehicle collision injuries and deaths: distracted driving, alcohol/drug impaired driving, aggressive driving, and lack of seatbelt use.
Vehicle collisions are preventable. Remember to stay safe as you travel:
- Plan ahead for a safe ride home if you intend to use substances.
- Always wear your seatbelt.
- Put your phone/device away and out of reach while driving.
- Follow the posted speed limits.
Choose to drive safely to protect yourself, your loved ones, and all road users. If you are a passenger and notice a driver engaging in any of these behaviours, speak up!
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Media Contacts
Provincial Constable Scott Woodburn
Lennox & Addington OPP
(613) 354-3369
About the QRTC
The Quinte Region Traffic Coalition (QRTC) is a partnership of Hastings Prince Edward Public Health, Belleville Police Service, OPP SAVE Team, OPP East Region Highway Safety Division, Ministry of Transportation, and the Bancroft, Central Hastings, Lennox and Addington County, Prince Edward County, and Quinte West OPP Detachments. The QRTC aims to reduce the number of incidents resulting in injuries and deaths on roads, trails, and waterways in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties.
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
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