OPP reminding public to wear a seatbelt when heading out this long weekend.
Ontario Provincial Police are reminding residents of the importance of seatbelts.
The OPP says between 2012 and 2021, 542 people killed in collisions where not wearing a seatbelt.
People between the ages of 25 to 34 had the highest rate of fatalities, accounting for 24 percent of the deaths.
The 15 to 24 year age bracket was the second highest group, at 22.3 per cent.
The OPP says while most drivers understand the value of seatbelts, common excuses heard for not buckling up range from only driving a short distance to the myth that seatbelts will trap you in the event of a crash.
The agency also notes while airbags are designed to work with seatbelts, an unbuckled person can experience serious injuries or death when an airbag deploys.
Residents are also reminded to ensure they have proper car seats for babies, toddlers and children.
Officers will be on patrol this long weekend, with a focus on seatbelt law enforcement.
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