OPP officials allege: Members of the Ontario Provincial Police West Region are taking part in the annual “Stay Focused” campaign aimed at reducing deaths and injuries caused by inattentive driving on roads and highways across the province.
The campaign runs from March 27 to April 3, 2026, and will focus on both education and enforcement targeting drivers who put themselves and others at risk by driving while distracted. Police say motorists can expect increased enforcement during the campaign, with officers taking a zero-tolerance approach to inattentive and distracted driving offences.
Inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of fatal collisions, according to police. In 2024, the OPP investigated 114 fatal collisions, resulting in 125 deaths, with 45 of those fatalities linked to inattentive driving. In 2025, inattentive driving was a factor in 22 deaths, and in 2026 year to date, five fatalities have already been attributed to inattentive driving.
Police say distracted or inattentive driving includes any activity that diverts attention from the road, such as adjusting a vehicle’s entertainment or GPS system, eating or drinking, using a hand-held communication or entertainment device, self-grooming, or tending to children or pets while driving.
Penalties for distracted driving convictions can include fines, demerit points, licence suspensions and increased insurance costs.
“The OPP is urging drivers of all ages to make safe choices behind the wheel and is encouraging passengers to speak up when they see unsafe driving behaviours. Taking a stand against distracted driving can save lives,” said Staff Sgt. Julie McLeod of West Region OPP Traffic and Marine Services.
More information on distracted driving laws and road safety initiatives is available at opp.ca.
