Ottawa Lawyer: Ottawa Valley Experiences 350% increase in Fatal Accidents
Unlike most of Eastern Ontario, the area patrolled by the Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police experienced an increase in fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2009. In 2008, the area saw only two fatal accidents. In 2009, the area saw nine fatal accidents. Affected communities include: Petawawa, Calabogie, Pembroke, Arnprior, Deep River, Renfrew and Eganville.
In contrast, an early January 2010 release from the Ontario Provincial Police stated that fatal collisions on OPP patrolled highways in Eastern Ontario generally had been reduced by 28 per cent, related injuries reduced by 37 per cent and deaths reduced by 27 per cent. In response to the increase in serious accidents in the Upper Ottawa Valley area, the OPP are planning an increased police presence, and an increase in education.
Driver error, inattention and speed were some of the contributing factors to accidents in the region in 2009.