York Region reports 7% decrease in collisions compared to 2020

Annual traveller safety report, which highlights key trends on regional roads, also shows a reduction in annual traffic volume of up to 35%, likely due to the pandemic

Newmarkettoday.ca
Oct. 12, 2022

York Region's annual traveller safety report show collisions declined by seven per cent in 2021 when compared to 2020.

The report includes data from across the regional road network regarding traveller behaviours, trends and collision patterns to help create safety programs and initiatives, according to a York Region news release.

Traveller safety programs, such as automated speed enforcement, red light cameras, school zone speed limit reduction and additional pedestrian and cyclist safety measures, are all aimed at improving driver behaviour and increasing safety.

Highlights of the report also include a:

• 31 per cent decrease in motorist collisions when compared to 2017-2020 average collision rates;
• 10 per cent to 35 per cent reduction in annual traffic volume in 2021 on regional roads, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic;
• 87 per cent of all motor vehicle collisions are caused by improper driving behaviours, with following too close at 28 per cent and inattentive behaviour while driving at 17 per cent;
• 37 per cent decrease in pedestrian collisions when compared to 2017-2020 average collision rates;
• 16 per cent decrease in cyclist collisions when compared to 2017-2020 average collision rates.

“Transportation remains a key area of focus, and York regional council has invested millions of dollars into road and transit infrastructure and improvements to enhance traffic operations and traveller safety,” said Wayne Emmerson, York Region chairman and CEO. “Over the next 10 years, we plan to invest an additional $3.1 billion across the regional transportation network. This includes implementing industry best practices, enhanced transit facilities and more safety initiatives and designs.”

In collaboration with road safety partners, York Region is also developing a Traveller Safety Plan to further understand human behaviour and the prevention of collisions and their severity. Community engagement, including a public opinion survey and online open house, is being planned for early 2023.

For more information on regional road safety measures or to see the annual traffic reports, visit this website.