OPP West Region launches intersection driving safety campaign

The OPP West Region has launched an intersection driving safety campaign in response to concerns surrounding fatal and serious collisions across its region.

The “Stop. Look. Live.” campaign comes days after a fatal collision northwest of Kitchener claimed the lives of five children who where members of a family from Elmira, Ont.

Six others — including five family members — remain in hospital due to the collision between a van and SUV. The driver of the SUV is also in hospital in critical condition.

The road campaign was planned prior to the deadly incident in Woolwich Township. Since then a GoFundMe Canada page has been set up for the family involved, named online as the Doerksen family.

READ MORE: Six people remain in hospital after rural Ontario crash killed five kids

“Intersection-related collisions continue to have devastating consequences for individuals, families  and communities. In both 2024 and 2025, 13 lives were lost each year as a result of failure-to-yield and intersection-related incidents,” reads a police statement from June 15.

From June 15 to June 21, OPP officers will focus on both enforcement and public education, targeting behaviours such as failing to stop at stop signs, failing to yield the right of way and inattentive driving.

“Every intersection presents a critical decision point for drivers. Taking an extra moment to stop and look can save lives,” says staff sergeant Julie Mcleod, OPP West Region traffic and marine.

Drivers are reminded that safe driving starts with simple, consistent actions:

• Come to a complete and deliberate stop at every stop sign
• Look in all directions, more than once, before proceeding
• Never assume other drivers will stop or yield
• Be mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and approaching vehicles.

“Choosing to slow down and take that extra moment is an act of care-for yourself, your passengers and every other road user,” adds the OPP.