Ontario among least dangerous areas for car crashes

A new study has revealed the most dangerous areas for car crashes in Canada, with Ontario ranking among the least hazardous, while Prince Edward Island reports the highest rate of fatalities.

The research, conducted by Alberta-based Preszler Injury Lawyers, analyzed 2022 Transport Canada data to determine the number of crash fatalities per 100,000 licensed drivers across the country. The findings show Ontario had 5.4 fatalities per 100,000 licensed drivers, which is almost 22 per cent below the national average of 6.9.

The Northwest Territories ranked as the safest area for car crashes, while Prince Edward Island was found to be the most dangerous, with 14.1 fatalities per 100,000 licensed drivers — 104 per cent higher than the national average. Saskatchewan followed closely with 12.3 fatalities per 100,000, while Nunavut ranked third with 9.2. Nova Scotia and New Brunswick shared the fourth spot, both reporting nine crash fatalities per 100,000 licensed drivers.

Other provinces in the Top 10 for crash fatalities include Newfoundland and Labrador (8.9), Manitoba and Alberta (both at 8.1), British Columbia (7.9) and Quebec (6.6). Yukon ranked just above Ontario, with 5.8 fatalities per 100,000 licensed drivers.

Human error leading cause of fatal crashes

A second study by Preszler Injury Lawyers examined five years of data (2018-2022) to identify the leading causes of fatal car crashes in Canada. The analysis found that human error is responsible for 65.9 per cent of deadly collisions.

Common driver errors include following too closely, failing to obey traffic lights and stop signs, misjudging the speed of approaching vehicles and making improper stops, turns or merges.

Impaired driving ranked as the second most significant factor, accounting for 25.7 per cent of fatal crashes.

Speeding was the third leading cause, contributing to 24.1 per cent of fatal accidents. “Speeding reduces the driver’s ability to steer safely, lengthens the distance needed to react to hazards and increases stopping distances,” the study noted.

Environmental factors, such as poor visibility, slippery roads and glare, were responsible for 21.7 per cent of deadly crashes. Distracted driving accounted for 20.7 per cent of fatal accidents, with texting, eating or talking on the phone among the main distractions.

Vehicle-related issues, including mechanical failures, played a role in 3.7 per cent of fatal crashes, while fatigued driving contributed to 3.2 per cent.

“The leading causes of fatal car accidents in Canada are a complex mix of factors. Human error, including following too close, failing to obey traffic lights, impaired driving, distraction, and fatigue, remain dominant contributors. Speeding increases the risk posed by these behaviours,” Preszler Injury Lawyers said.

“Environmental conditions like road quality and weather can also play a significant role. While car safety technology has improved, one cause is still vehicle-related. It’s crucial to recognize that the most effective way to prevent fatal crashes is to address human behaviour, environmental conditions, and vehicle factors.”