Motor vehicle accidents are a significant concern in Alberta, leading to a high number of injuries and fatalities each year. The latest Alberta Traffic Collision Statistics reveal a substantial 119,070 reported motor vehicle accidents in 2023. These are not just numbers; they are real people. While some accidents are unavoidable due to external factors, many are caused by human errors and are preventable. This article aims to highlight the common causes of motor vehicle accidents and to provide practical guidance on how to prevent them, empowering readers to make a difference.
The most recent Alberta Traffic Collision Statistics show that 80.7% of total collisions involved at least a driver who committed a driving error, and some of the factors leading to deaths and injuries are speeding, ‘tailgating’ and impaired driving. These statistics further highlight that 1 in 4 drivers in fatal collisions (24.5%) and 1 in 6 drivers in major injury crashes (20.1%) were driving at an unsafe speed.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is an activity that diverts a driver’s attention while driving, such as texting, using a GPS, eating, or adjusting the radio. A driver whose attention is diverted during driving is more likely to cause or be involved in a motor vehicle accident than an attentive driver. It’s important to note that the consequences of distracted driving can be severe, including serious injuries or even fatalities. Every driver should know that distracted driving not only puts the driver and other road users at significant risk of a motor vehicle accident but also increases the likelihood of being involved in one.
Tips to address distracted driving
• Keeping phones out of reach when driving.
• Enable Do Not Disturb on your phone. Phones like iPhone and Google now have Do Not Disturb While Driving mode that stops notifications once it senses that a car is in motion.
• Do personal grooming at home.
• Do not eat meals or snacks when driving.
• Set up navigation and music before driving.
• Take regular breaks when driving long distances.
Impaired Driving
Driving while under the influence of substances such as alcohol, cannabis, and other illicit drugs is not only illegal, attracting criminal punishment, but it is also one of the leading causes of motor vehicle collisions in Alberta. The recent Alberta Traffic Collision Statistics show that 1 in 14 drivers in fatal collisions was legally impaired (7.3%) and 1 in 15 drivers in major injury collisions was legally impaired (6.8%).
Some measures that address impaired driving are:
• Do not drive after consuming alcohol or drugs.
• Use ride-sharing services or a designated driver after consuming alcohol or drugs.
• Report any suspected impaired drivers to the authorities.
Speeding
Driving above the authorized speed limit or too fast for road conditions is also a significant contributor to the motor vehicle accident rate in Alberta. Speeding reduces reaction time and escalates the severity of crashes; as a result, it is important to address the danger it poses to drivers and other road users. Alberta Traffic Collision Statistics show that in 2023, 4.8% of total collisions involved drivers travelling at a speed too great for the given conditions, and 23.4% of fatal collisions involved unsafe speed.
Some measures that address speeding include:
• Following the authorized speed limits.
• Slowing down in poor weather conditions or where there is low visibility.
• Maintaining a safe following distance in traffic.
Failing to Obey Traffic Signals and Signs
Traffic signs play a crucial role in driving, aiding navigation and preventing chaos. Ignoring these signs not only endangers drivers and road users but can also lead to motor vehicle accidents, potentially resulting in injuries and fatalities. It’s vital always to obey traffic signs, as they are there for everyone’s safety.
Safety Tips:
• Obey traffic signs always.
• Always be on alert when driving
• Slow down when approaching intersections.
• Be cautious even when you have the right of way.
Wildlife
Alberta’s beautiful ecosystem is not without its challenges, and wildlife is a known transportation hazard and a leading cause of collisions in Alberta’s rural areas. Statistics show that 62% of crashes on Alberta rural highways involved an animal, and 6% of these crashes resulted in human casualties. Some practical tips for driving in rural areas are:
• Being vigilant in rural areas.
• Using high beams when appropriate.
• Watching for wildlife crossing signs.
Driving Inexperience
Immaturity and lack of driving experience among young or newly licensed drivers lead to errors in judgment and misinterpretation of traffic signals. Statistics show that drivers between the ages of 16 and 24 represent the largest percentage of fatal collisions and major injury collisions in Alberta as of 2023. Some practical tips that can be beneficial to inexperienced drivers include:
• Taking professional driving lessons.
• Practicing defensive driving.
• Avoiding high-risk situations like night driving or busy highways until you are more experienced.
Preventable behaviours, such as impaired driving, speeding, and environmental factors like wildlife, are often the causes of Motor vehicle accidents in Alberta. Each risk requires awareness and proactive measures. Understanding these common causes and following the recommended safety tips can greatly decrease the likelihood of a collision. Whether you’re an experienced driver or just beginning, committing to safer driving habits not only protects you but also enhances the safety of Alberta’s roads.
You can book a consultation with us at Watchmaker Law if you are injured in a car accident. Our team provides client-focused, empathetic services to help clients who are injured in car accidents.
We are available 24/7 to review the facts of your case and provide information on the options available to you. We can be reached at 825-203-9801 or chat live with a member of our legal team now on our home page.
