OPP want drivers to stay safe over August long weekend
Posted Jul 30, 2026 04:48:55 PM.
As many Ontarians get ready to hit the road for the August long weekend, OPP are gearing up for what’s expected to be a busy few days for traffic enforcement.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want drivers to get to their destination safely, which includes wearing a seatbelt, slowing down, driving sober, and staying attentive.
During last year’s Civic holiday weekend, there were nine vehicle-related fatalities on OPP-patrolled roads.
2025 recap
Last year’s August long weekend saw OPP lay 3,514 charges for speeding, 512 seatbelt-related charges, 204 impaired driving charges, and 77 distracted driving charges.
“As first responders, OPP officers see the devastating consequences of poor driving decisions,” said Karen Meyer, OPP Deputy Commissioner for Traffic Safety and Operational Support. “Traffic enforcement is about preventing tragedies and creating safer roads for everyone. This weekend let’s all work together to make safety a priority.”
Drivers are also reminded to move over for emergency vehicles, including police, as it’s the law in Ontario.
In 2025, OPP laid a total of 170 charges to drivers over the course of the year who didn’t comply with the “Slow Down, Move Over” requirements.
Sky high enforcement
OPP won’t just be on the roads, they’ll be in the sky.
Traffic officers with Central Region OPP will be supported by the Airplane Enforcement Program (AEP) from July 30 to Aug. 2 in places like Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Dufferin, Caledon, Orillia, and Northumberland County.
The elevated spotter will monitor driver behaviours and report back to officers on the ground if they see any traffic violations.
