Photo courtesy of West Region OPP.

As many residents hit the road to visit family and friends over the holiday weekend, Provincial Police will be working to ensure everyone is safe.

Authorities say 296 people have been killed in collisions on OPP-patrolled roads so far this year, the vast majority of which were preventable and caused by careless actions and behaviour.

Figures show deaths linked to driver inattention have risen 40% compared to this time last year, with speeding, impaired driving and seat belt non-compliance among other factors contributing to the preventable loss of life.

Cyclist and pedestrian fatalities are up 100% and 82% respectively compared to October 2023. Motorcyclist deaths are also up significantly, marking a 41% increase.

The OPP is joining other police services across the country, carrying out Operation Impact this weekend, targeting speeding and proper seat belt use, as well as distracted, impaired, and fatigued driving.