Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), in West Region would like to remind all motorists to take extra care on our roads and highways as the snow continues to fall.
OPP encourage motorists to respond to adverse and rapidly changing road conditions by reducing speed and leaving extra space to adjust to reduced braking ability on icy, snowy roads.
Weather changes, particularly during the winter, can occur suddenly and dramatically. Sudden storms and plunging temperatures can drastically change road conditions and reduce visibility. Driving defensively and responsibly during the winter months will ensure you and your loved ones will reach your destination safely.
Winter driving requires the full attention of every motorist. Proper pre-trip planning and vehicle inspections will make for a much safer trip. Always exercise caution when driving in the winter.
“Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Predictable is preventable, make safety your priority”. – Inspector Mike McConnell, Traffic and Marine Manager, West Region OPP Headquarters, in a media release.
Finally, please DO NOT call the Provincial Communications Centre (PCC) (Dispatch) for road and weather conditions. Police will not provide this information. Calling the PCC, ties up phone lines that others depend upon for emergency situations.
Also, Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), in West Region is urging the motoring public to clear their windshields of frost, ice and snow. The ability to see clearly out of your vehicle is paramount to safe driving.
It is not worth leaving the snow or ice on your vehicle when a few moments and a little effort can have it cleared off. When cleaning the snow or ice from your windshield, be sure to clear the wiper blades and windshield washer nozzles so they will work when you need them.
It is illegal to drive with your windows blocked by snow or ice. Motorists can face charges with having an obstructed view. Section 74 of the Highway Traffic Act states that “No person shall drive a motor vehicle upon a highway (a) unless the windshield and the windows on either side of the compartment containing the steering wheel are in such a condition as to afford the driver a clear view to the front and side of the motor vehicle and (b) unless the rear window is in such a condition as to afford the driver a clear view to the rear of the motor vehicle.”
In other words, all the windows must be kept clear to afford the driver an unobstructed view. This includes snow and ice along with items hanging from the rear-view mirror. This rule also applies to keeping the inside of the windows clear of fog or frost. The more you can see, the safer you will be.
“Visibility matters, and the ability to see clearly out of your vehicle is vital to safe driving. After all, if you can’t see it, how can you avoid it?” said Acting Staff Sergeant Julie McLeod, Traffic and Marine, West Region Headquarters, in a press release.
You can access up-to-date road and weather information by visiting https://www.municipal511.ca/ or http://511on.ca/.
