OPP warn drivers to be extra cautious following spike in crashes on Highway 401

An increase in collisions at construction zones along Highway 401 has prompted provincial police to warn motorists to be extra cautious.

• OPP identify mother and son from Amherstburg killed in six-vehicle crash near Chatham

• 'It hurts us all': Essex MPP calls for answers after Highway 401 crash claims mother and son

The warning comes after Lacie Brundritt, 42, and her son Kyle, 14, were killed in a six-vehicle collision on Sunday, the latest in a series of crashes that has plagued a stretch of highway near Chatham-Kent.

"Drivers should be prepared for possible delays in these areas and plan accordingly," wrote Const. Jake Denorer in a media release. "Drivers should remain vigilant at all times, particularly in construction zones where inattention behind the wheel can lead to tragic consequences."

In the release, Denorer reminds motorists road work is taking place on the highway between Scane Road and County Road 42.

The OPP advise motorists to follow all warning signs, follow lowered speed limits and to be prepared for sudden stops due to workers or construction equipment on the road.

Speed fines are also doubled where workers are present and police will be closely monitoring the construction zones, Denorer added.

"Drivers have continually failed to slow while in constructions zones so a law came into effect where speed fines are doubled when there are workers present," he wrote. "It's a lot easier to just slow down."

MPP asking for answers after deadly crash

Essex MPP Taras Natyshak is also voicing concerns about dangers on the highway and said Tuesday he had contacted the OPP and Ministry of Transportation asking for answers about Sunday's deadly crash.

"Realistically, construction zones anywhere in Ontario should be the safest places on our roadways," he said.