SNOW DITCHES DRIVER IN BRACEBRIDGE AS WEEKEND STORM CLOSES HWY. 11 BETWEEN ORILLIA AND BARRIE FRIDAY WITH 20-30 CARS, TRUCKS PILED UP
Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com
CENTRAL ONTARIO — The cold and snow that is causing chaos for pedestrians and drivers up and down Muskoka through to Barrie yesterday continues.
More accidents, including an early morning crash yesterday had police and emergency services busier than normal at this time of the new year.
On Friday January 23, at 12:15 a.m., OPP in south Muskoka responded to a report of a single vehicle collision into a snowbank on Cedar Lane near Entrance Drive in Bracebridge.
The vehicle had been freed from the snowbank and was located nearby at a restaurant on Depot Drive.
Officers conducted an investigation into the circumstances and subsequently arrested and charged 29-year-old Michael Bates, of Burlington, with Impaired Operation and Over 80.
He will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on March 3, 2026 to answer to his charges.
Later in the morning, OPP in Orillia responded to multiple collisions on Highway 11, due to poor weather and low visibility, which resulted in the closure of the highway for several hours.
Police, fire and paramedics responded to multiple collisions on Highway 11, just north of Barrie.
The initial crash, reported at approximately 10:30 a.m., involved an estimated 20 to 30 vehicles, including two tractor-trailers. Minor injuries were reported, and a vehicle fire was quickly extinguished by firefighters.
A section of Highway 11, between Barrie and Orillia, was closed for several hours due to severe winter weather and to allow emergency crews to assess road conditions and clear the scene.
During the closure, stranded motorists were transported to a nearby warming centre for safety and support.
Northbound and southbound lanes were reopened by approximately 6 p.m. last night.
However, MTO crews remained on scene repairing damaged guardrails.
BAD WEATHER CONTINUING
More severe winter weather is expected in parts of the region over the weekend, and motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, monitor weather updates, and ensure vehicles are equipped with emergency supplies.
Before heading out, drivers are encouraged to check 511on.ca for provincial highway conditions and municipal511.ca for local updates.
Safety Tips for Motorists:
- Stay in your vehicle if stranded. Leaving your vehicle in winter conditions can be extremely dangerous.
- Keep your exhaust pipe clear of snow and ice to prevent carbon monoxide build-up.
- Run your engine periodically for warmth, rather than continuously, and conserve battery power.
- Use blankets and extra clothing to stay warm. Keep emergency supplies accessible.
- Turn on hazard lights when running your engine and, if safe, attach a bright cloth to your antenna or door handle.
- Call 911 only for emergencies where your safety is at immediate risk.
Penalties for Ignoring Road Closures:
Accessing closed roads is dangerous and illegal. Motorists who drive past road closure signs or barricades may face fines under the Highway Traffic Act. These closures are in place to protect both the public and emergency responders working in hazardous conditions.
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