Motor Vehicle Incidents In Ontario

Motor Vehicle Incidents

In Ontario, motor vehicle collisions are one of the leading causes of workers' injuries and fatalities. On an average day in Ontario, motor vehicle collisions will kill more than two people and injure more than 180 others, making motor vehicle incidents (MVIs) the biggest risk Ontarians face each day they go to work.
The four major factors leading to motor vehicle fatalities are:

• drinking and driving: 27%
• large truck crashes: 22%
• driver speed: 21%
• unbelted occupants: 20%

The top three driver conditions and actions that contribute to fatal collisions are:

• impairment as a result of alcohol or drugs
• being inattentive (e.g., from fatigue or distractions)
• aggressive behaviour, such as driving too fast

As an employer, you must take every precaution reasonable to protect your employees from this hazard. This means that your organization is responsible to ensure the safety of your employees when they drive as part of their work duties and you have the same responsibilities even if the employee is using his or her own vehicle. You must make your employees aware of the hazards related to driving and provide information, instruction and supervision to protect the health and safety of your employees. As an employer you have an obligation to have a Road Safety Program and develop policies and procedures on driver licensing requirements, safe driving practices, vehicle maintenance, and collision/injury investigations for your employees.
As a driver, you can

• Slow down: drive within the speed limit and adjust your speed for weather and road conditions. Follow vehicles at a safe distance.
• Relax: in stressful driving conditions, take a deep breath and relax. An aggressive state of mind will come through in your driving behaviour.
• Stay alert: don’t drive until you are mentally and physically able to. If you become drowsy or uncomfortable, pull over immediately and take a break.
• Plan ahead: plan your route before you start out. If you’re unfamiliar with where you’re going, check your map or plot the route with GPS, before you start off.
• Buckle up: wearing a seat belt is the law and it could end up saving your life. Wearing your seat belt properly will dramatically increase your chances of surviving a motor vehicle collision. If you are the driver, ensure all children 16 years and under are properly secured.
• Don’t drink and drive: refuse to ride with someone who may be impaired. Plan ahead: choose a designated driver before going out or set some money aside for a taxi.