The OPP have released their data and determined that 2022 was deadly on our roads

February 09, 2023, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

The OPP released their crash data in January for 2022 and the year was deadly. Over 350 people died on provincial highways alone. The number was broken down:

• 44 motorcyclists died
• 29 pedestrians died
• 12 bicyclists died
• More than 265 drivers and passengers of motor vehicles died

That isn’t all

• 27 people died in off road crashes
• 29 boating fatalities were reported
• 14 snowmobile riders died

They are asking that people take care in 2023 on the roads and when riding on or in motorized vehicles.

Highway driving is Dangerous

Driving on highways is considered dangerous for many reasons. To ensure safe and responsible highway driving, it is important to understand the risks and take the necessary precautions.

One of the main dangers of highway driving is the speed at which vehicles are traveling. Highways often have higher speed limits compared to other roads, and many drivers exceed these limits, increasing the risk of accidents. When a driver is traveling at a high speed, they have less time to react to unexpected events and their vehicle is more likely to be damaged in a collision. This is because the force of impact increases as the speed of the vehicle increases. Slow down on the roads and obey the speed limit.

Another major concern is the potential for distracted driving. With the rise of smartphones and other distractions, many drivers are not paying attention to the road while driving. This increases the risk of accidents and makes it more difficult for drivers to react to unexpected events. Distracted driving can include activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, or using a navigation system. Keep your eyes and attention on the road.

Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol are also a major risk on the highway. These substances impair a driver's judgement, reaction time, and coordination, making it much more difficult for them to drive safely. Alcohol-impaired driving is particularly dangerous because it slows down a driver's reaction time and impairs their judgement, making it more likely that they will make mistakes on the road. Please don’t drive impaired. Make a plan before you head out for how you will get home.

Weather conditions can also make highway driving dangerous. Snow, ice, and rain can cause slippery roads, reducing traction and making it more difficult for drivers to control their vehicles. High winds can also make it difficult for drivers to stay in their lane, and heavy rain or snow can reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to see other vehicles and road hazards. In these conditions, drivers should reduce their speed and increase their following distance to ensure that they have enough time to react to unexpected events.

Another risk of highway driving is the potential for road rage and aggressive driving. Police forces throughout Canada reported a marked increase in road rage incidents post-pandemic. Road rage can occur when drivers become frustrated with other drivers and engage in dangerous behaviors, such as tailgating, cutting off other drivers, or making dangerous lane changes. This type of behavior can lead to accidents and road rage incidents, putting both the aggressive driver and other drivers at risk. If you find yourself the victim of road rage call 911 and stay in your vehicle.

Finally, fatigue is another major concern for highway drivers. Driving when tired can impair a driver's judgement, reaction time, and coordination, making it more difficult for them to drive safely. This is particularly true for long-distance truck drivers who are on the road for extended periods of time. To avoid fatigue, it is important for drivers to take regular breaks, get plenty of sleep, and avoid driving for extended periods of time. Remember, it’s ok to stop and take a rest or nap at a roadside rest area if you are feeling sleepy.

Have you been injured in a car accident?

Remember, if you are in a crash and anyone is injured you should call for emergency services. If your injuries are not serious then exchange driver information and take pictures of the crash site and vehicles if it is safe to do so. Take pictures of the other driver’s licence and insurance and witness information as well.

If you are seriously injured you should contact an experienced personal injury lawyer immediately at Deutschmann Personal Injury and Disability Law for a free consultation. Don’t face your situation alone.

Call today 519.742.7774 or fill out our online contact form and we’ll call you!

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

It is important that you review your accident benefit file with one of our experienced personal injury / car accident lawyers to ensure that you obtain access to all your benefits which include, but are limited to, things like physiotherapy, income replacement benefits, vocational retraining and home modifications.