Ontario's Doctors Laud Transportation Safety Improvements

TORONTO, March 17, 2014 /CNW/ - Ontario's doctors applaud the measures introduced today by the province's Minister of Transportation, Glen Murray. These are a step in the right direction and will improve the safety of those who choose active forms of transportation such as cycling.

Ontario's doctors strongly support regular physical exercise for both children and adults. We believe cycling as a form of transportation should be supported and encouraged by government – but lack of infrastructure and other issues have caused too many injuries and deaths among cyclists.  In 2011 the Ontario Medical Association called for a number of measures which would help remove real and perceived safety issues preventing more Ontarians participating in this highly beneficial form of exercise. We look forward to working with government to continue improving cycling safety.

I would also like to commend the Minister's initiatives to strengthen distracted driving laws. There is simply no excuse for texting or using handheld devices while driving. Toughening penalties on this reckless behaviour should help reduce the terrible health consequences that physicians see in our hospitals and offices every day.

Dr. Scott Wooder
President
Ontario Medical Association

SOURCE: Ontario Medical Association

OMA Media Relations at 416.340.2862 or toll-free at 1.800.268.7215, ext. 286, [email protected] @OntariosDoctors