Manitoba road fatalities have been steadily decreasing over the years, with 2014 being the lowest year in three decades, according to traffic accident data released today by Manitoba Public Insurance.
A total of 70 people were killed on public roadways last year – 58 per cent lower than the 30-year high of 168 in 1986.
“It’s important to remember that these 70 fatalities are people and their loss had a profound impact on countless individuals,” said MaryAnn Kempe, vice-president, Business Development & Communications and Chief Product Officer, Manitoba Public Insurance. “They were wives, sisters, mothers and daughters. They were husbands, brothers, fathers and sons.”
“While we are very encouraged to see these numbers trending in a positive direction, we must also be very aware that one person dying on our roads is one too many. That’s why we are so committed to doing everything in our power to raise awareness, educate motorists and provide dedicated programs designed to reduce risk on the road.”
Additional preliminary data collected by Manitoba’s public auto insurer also showed there were 10 people killed in 2014 as a result of nine off-road vehicle crashes. That was two fewer deaths than in 2013.
“We will continue working with like-minded agencies and partners to advance a message of safety on our roads, added Kempe. “We want to see this downward trend continue. Motorists can be proactive to ensure they arrive at their destination safely.”
“High-risk driving behaviour is dangerous to everyone. Slowing down, driving to road conditions, refraining from driving while impaired and putting away mobile devices when behind the wheel can truly be the difference between life and death.”
Road Safety Stats
- 25 people are killed yearly in Manitoba due to distracted driving
- About one-third of road fatalities are alcohol related
- A person is 32 times more likely to be killed and five times more likely to be seriously injured when not wearing a seatbelt.
