Northern drivers more likely to die in vehicle crashes

[Cybergal]

Northern drivers more likely to die in vehicle crashes
11/12/07

DAWSON CREEK, BC (Canadian OH&S News) -- Driving on northern roads in British Columbia is, “without a doubt”, more treacherous than driving in other parts of the province, says Gary McLeod, business manager with Northern British Columbia Trucking Association.

McLeod advises truckers who drive long distances to “be aware” that they “would not be stopping as quick and fast as [they] would be in a small vehicle.”

His comments are in response to the 2007 Update on Motor Vehicle Crashes and Crash Prevention released by the Northern Health Authority. The report says northern drivers in British Columbia are 1.5 to 2.5 times more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle collision than other motorists in the province.

Northern road users include transport trucks, cars, delivery vehicles, public transit, RVs, emergency vehicles, motorbikes, cyclists and pedestrians.

The report cites driver inattention as the top factor leading to collisions, exacerbated by the use of alcohol and drugs at “unacceptably” high rates in the north, which contributes to driver fatigue and inattention. Winter conditions and wild animals also play a role.

http://www.ohscanada.com/issues/ISAr...issue=11132007