Traffic Accidents in Canada

I saw the reports on the O.P.P. website. It was a rough Labour Day W/E weekend in Muskoka, the Central Region. Traffic accident death rates are down by 52% * over the past 25 years, 71% of those involved in traffic accidents are male. There are many reasons for the lowered rate: anti-lock braking, airbags, consistent use of seat belts and child restraints. The enforcement of speed limits, better legislation, and more vigilance protects all of us.

While the good news is that deaths are down, just one is just one is too many. The summer months are the worst. The impact on family is profound and obvious. The impact on friends is tremendous. Rural areas account for 62% of all collisions. I know that those in Muskoka seem to neglect simple things like turn signals, checking their blind spots, and driving sensible. The other day our family spotted two seperate incidents of drivers turning left across the road, while another drove to their left around similarly turning left. Road rage, driving while stoned, improperly installed child safety seats, the use of cellphones, and other technologies (i.e., GPS) while driving, contribute to the statistics.

On behalf of all residents and some visitors I say to our EMS crews: thanks for being there. When I see the OPP helicopter overhead I shudder. I know the recent Bala accident proved an especially difficult situation. Keep up the good work - it is not easy. Such accidents (on the railway tracks) have happened before - the last time I recall it happened I was a teenager, but I know it it happens too often.

We are all accountable: friends, family, bartenders and society, can help prevent such an incident, but ultimately it is the individual who is responsible. Social norms are changing, but we must help those who are vulnerable to addiction.

Motel room theft, drunk driving, assaults, all have some amount of alcohol involved. It is such a preventable problem. Let your friends know when they have had enough. Be strong and help them take responsibility. Their families will thank you.

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*"Motor vehicle accident deaths, 1979 to 2004."