Ontario Provincial Police are reporting a staggering increase in the number of road fatalities so far this year.

Just two weeks into the year, 26 people have died on OPP-patrolled roads.

That’s an increase of 271 per cent compared to 2017.

“You can all do a part in making sure everyone gets home safely by slowing down focusing on the road and paying attention,” said OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt.

Police haven’t determined the reason for the jump but say not driving to conditions and distracted driving are concerns.