Canadian Road Safety week, which runs from May 13th-May 19th, 2015, raises awareness for safe driving and fosters consideration for fellow drivers, cyclists and pedestrians who all share Canadian roadways.
The goal for this year’s Safety Week is to catch people who are not wearing seatbelts, driving under the influence as well as those who are distracted and driving aggressively. Police have named these the “Big Four Killers” and it is the theme of this year’s Safety Week. These notorious violations cause the majority of fatalities and injuries on Canadian roadways.

According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), 250 to 1,500 people are killed and more than 63,000 injured each year due to some form of impaired driving. In 2013, police-reported crime statistics saw 78,391 instances of impaired driving which was only an 8% decrease from the prior year. These statistics support the sad reality that there are still people who think it is acceptable to drink and drive.

Of the four categories, impaired driving continues to be the highest priority for police. Drivers who are caught under the influence could face a number of life-changing scenarios including death, incarceration, a hefty fine which is left to a judge’s discretion and a potential lifetime suspension of their license.
Financially, the consequences of being the at-fault driver of a collision involving driving while under the influence can be devastating. Insurance companies will refuse to cover someone involved in a DUI for at least three years. In many cases the effects of price hikes on premiums can be staggering. Premiums can go from $2,000 per year to as much as $8,500-$10,000 per year.

The good news is that there are simple solutions to ensure that Canadian roads are a safer place; one can simply download a cab app or keep a cab number on speed-dial, stay at a friend’s place or local hotel and finally, try to practice a little moderation, which may include not drinking at all.

Himelfarb Proszanski appreciates the effort that both the police and the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Association do to help keep the roads safe for all Canadians. It is our hope and intention that Canadian Road Safety Week can significantly increase awareness of the “Big Four Killers” and change people’s attitudes for the better. If you’ve been involved in an accident, speak to a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights.

For more on Canadian Safety Week visit the Canadian Safety Council. For more information on driving while intoxicated, visit Statistics Canada and MADD.