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Airdrie motorists may want to take note of a recent study showing that Alberta is ranked fifth in Canada for road traffic injuries. This raises concerns about potential pressure on emergency healthcare services across the province, mainly since the city is near one of the province's main transport arteries, the QEII.
The findings come from an analysis of Transport Canada data conducted by Preszler Injury Lawyers. They reveal a significant road safety challenge that could increase local emergency room visits.
The study compares the rate of road traffic injuries per 100,000 licensed drivers across the country. Alberta saw 523.9 injuries per 100,000 drivers in 2022, translating to 17,842 injuries across the province—a rate 23.5 per cent higher than the national average. This ranking puts Alberta behind Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Labrador.
Manitoba leads the country with the highest rate, recording 786.4 injuries per 100,000 drivers, followed by Saskatchewan with 681.3 injuries. The data underscores a potential surge in hospital admissions related to traffic accidents, making it crucial for Alberta hospitals to be prepared.
A spokesperson for Preszler Injury Lawyers emphasized the importance of preventive measures by governments and individual drivers.
"Local governments must improve road conditions, signage, and traffic management systems. At the same time, drivers must remain vigilant and follow traffic laws to reduce the risk of accidents," the spokesperson said. "They also called for hospitals to ensure their emergency departments are ready to handle increased demand, especially in areas with higher accident rates."
Mounties issue reminders ahead of winter and shorter days
Recently, Alberta Mounties have issued reminders to motorists as days get shorter and winter driving conditions come closer and closer, which drivers had a taste of earlier this week. Some winter driving tips include:
- Clear all snow from your vehicle to improve visibility.
- Allow extra travel time in poor weather.
- Ensure your headlights are functioning and always on.
- Increase following and braking distance on icy roads.
- Travel with a fully charged phone for emergencies.
- Slow down and adjust your speed to the conditions. Driving too fast in poor weather can result in fines.
The RCMP also recommends keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle, including items like a thermal blanket, extra clothing, a candle with waterproof matches, a first aid kit, booster cables, and a shovel.
RCMP also reminds drivers that visibility and driving conditions can be affected as daylight hours wane in the fall. Therefore, both drivers and pedestrians are reminded to practice caution.
Drivers should be vigilant in school zones, never pass stopped vehicles at crosswalks, and ensure pedestrians have cleared the area before proceeding. Pedestrians are advised to use marked crosswalks, wear high-visibility clothing in low light, and walk facing traffic when sidewalks aren't available.
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