KAWARTHA LAKES-With snowy weather in the forecast, members of the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP want to remind citizens to take extra caution when travelling, and what to do when involved in a motor vehicle collision.
A motor vehicle collision occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris or other stationary obstruction, such as a tree, pole, guide rail or building etc.
When involved in a collision and it is safe to do so:
- Remove vehicles off the highway to a safe location
- Exchanged information with the other involved parties- obtain details regarding their vehicle, ownership/insurance, and the driver’s information.
- Obtain names and phone numbers of any witnesses
- Call police if required, or if you suspect criminal activity such as impaired driving
You are required to call police at the time of the collision when:
- The total damage is $2,000 or more
- There is damage to private or public property (sign, post, fence, etc.)
- There are any injuries
When calling the police follow the directions provided by the call taker. If directed by the call taker or an officer, attend an OPP Collision Reporting Centre within 48 hours of the collision. You must bring your damaged vehicle, documentation (driver’s licence, ownership and insurance) and the details of the collision itself (where, when, how etc.) to the reporting centre.
Police say please remember to:
- Slow down and stay in control – if you skid release your brakes and steer in the direction you want to go
- Give space as it takes longer to stop on slippery roads
- Focus and stay alert to road surfaces
- See and be seen – Use your vehicles full lighting system in poor weather
- Stay back from snowploughs – Give them space and never pass a working snowplough
- Have your vehicle prepared with – winter tires, an ice scraper and windshield washer fluid, a survival kit and keep your tank at least half full
- Plan your route with Ontario/511 for updated info on road conditions and snow plough locations
For more tips regarding safe winter travel visit:
Winter Driving: Shareable Resources (gov.on.ca)
