More deadly crashes so far in 2023 than last year this time: OPP

Ontario Provincial Police say there have been more fatal collisions so far this year in comparison to this time last year, with 136 deadly crashes leading up to this month.

Of the 136 fatal collisions, officers say 150 people were killed to date. On the other hand, there were 103 deadly crashes and 125 lives lost at this time last year.

Police say the current rise in fatalities follows a year that saw an already historically high number of deaths on highways, with 2022’s 359 fatalities marking a 16-year high.

READ MORE: 1 hospitalized, roads closed after single-vehicle crash in Oakville

According to the latest data, OPP responded to 15 fatal collisions resulting in 18 deaths from June 1 to 11, compared to four fatal collisions and deaths over the same 11-day period in 2022.

“What has not changed are the alarmingly poor and dangerous driving behaviours that consistently contribute to these road deaths such as speeding, careless driving, driver inattention, driver fatigue, alcohol/drug consumption and lack of seatbelt use,” police said.

Officers are asking drivers to always drive within the speed limit and to never take risks of any kind. The force says this is the only way to avoid causing serious collisions that end lives on the road.

READ MORE: 1 dead following ‘serious’ multiple-vehicle crash in St. Catharines