What is the Number One Cause of Fatal Accidents on Ontario Roads This Year?

The number one cause of fatal accidents is not a lack of driver attention, alcohol or drugs. It’s not even animal obstruction. It’s speed.

According to the Ontario Provincial Police, twenty-eight people have been killed so far in speed-related accidents between January 1 and June 21, 2015. Driver inattention contributed to twenty-three fatalities. Alcohol and drugs combined took the lives of fourteen people.

OPP Sgt. Dave Rektor says that the statistics point to the general trend of speeding on Ontario highways where people routinely drive 10 to 20 kilometres over the limit. The reasons why people speed are numerous, and can range from being ignorant of the speed limit to wanting to arrive at their destination as soon as possible.

Whatever the reasons for speeding, it is still illegal and often deadly. It makes it more difficult to control and stop a car in the event of an emergency. Sudden stops can be dangerous for the driver and the drivers behind them. Other dangerous aspects of speeding are the injuries that can result, including lacerations, whiplash, soft tissue injuries, fractures, brain injuries and death.

During the summer, with more drivers on the road, it is important to drive within the speed limit. The OPP has promised to increase its presence on roadways to make sure drivers obey traffic rules and regulations, and adhere to speed limits.

The more drivers speed, the higher the increase of collisions. As mentioned above, speeding cannot only cause serious accidents but can also be deadly. If a collision is caused by seriously exceeding the speed limit, there is no guarantee that you will be covered by insurance. On the other hand, you may be entitled to benefits in the event of injury resulting from a speeding incident. To avoid costly litigation, it is important that drivers do their part to keep themselves and others safe. If you are involved in an accident, speak to an accident lawyer to understand your rights.