The Legacy of Those Left Behind - Canadians Rethink Road Safety During National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims

OTTAWA, Nov. 21, 2012 /CNW/ - Wednesday, November 21, 2012 marks the 5^th annual National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims in Canada.  Each year, close to 2 000 Canadians die and over 145 000 are injured on Canadian roads. This commemorative day draws much needed attention to the importance of driving safely on our streets, roads and highways.

The rate of fatalities on Canadian roads has been decreasing over the last 60 years and this fact gives us a sense of hope and accomplishment. Still, 6 people die on Canada's roads every day on average. The impact of these daily tragedies is far reaching, and in some ways we are all affected. As a result, we are also all responsible for ensuring that we continue to do our part to improve the safety of all Canadians on the roads that we share.

"Although the number of fatalities per 100 000 population has decreased over the last few years, the number of preventable and avoidable deaths due to motor vehicle crashes is still a significant public safety risk for Canadians.  We know that speed, drinking and driving, and distracted driving continue to present challenges on our roads and that collisions are a major cause of death especially for those between the ages of 5 to 34", says Methusalah Kunuk, Chair of the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA).

November 21 is an opportunity to remember the victims of road crashes.  "We want Canada to have the safest roads in the world", continues Mr. Kunuk. "It's the vision of our members and I'm sure the vision that we all share as Canadians".

Canadians can find out how to play a role in reducing road fatalities and injuries and can create a tribute to someone they've lost or whose life has been changed by a crash by visiting www.rememberroadcrashvictims.ca.

CCMTA is the official organization in Canada for coordinating all matters dealing with the administration, regulation and control of motor vehicle transportation and highway safety. CCMTA members are from all Canadian governments as well as Associates from transportation related organizations. For more information on CCMTA visit www.ccmta.ca.

SOURCE: CANADIAN COUNCIL OF MOTOR TRANSPORT ADMINISTRATORS

Valerie Todd, Programs Manager 
613-736-1003 ext 251