Every year, the third Wednesday of November is recognized as National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims. It is a day to honour and remember those who lost their lives or have been seriously injured on Canadian roads, often in preventable crashes.

In Canada, there are approximately 160,000 vehicle accidents each year, resulting in more than 2,800 deaths. There are also many significant, debilitating injuries. Many of these accidents are preventable.

To reduce the risk of a motor vehicle collision follow the posted speed limits, adjust driving to road conditions, do not consume drugs or alcohol when driving, do not drive impaired, wear seat belts and eliminate all distractions.

The Provincial Government regularly reviews the Highway Traffic Act and makes improvements to help increase road safety. Over the past several years, changes include strengthening provisions for excessive speeding, stunting and street racing, ‘move over’ provisions and new offences related to driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other persons causing death or bodily harm. The Act was also amended to permit the use of image capture systems, and regulations for these systems are currently being developed.

It is the personal stories of those who experience the grief associated with losing a loved one that resonates deeply. Individuals, families and communities must live with the unbearable loss or suffering of their loved ones. Remembering those affected by road crashes serves as a stark reminder to be a safe and responsible driver.

Quote
“It only takes a moment for lives to change forever because of a crash on our roadways, but it also only takes a moment to make the decision to drive safely. I encourage drivers to follow the rules of the road and thank those who continue to support and promote road safety in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Digital Government and Service NL

– 30 – 

Learn more
News Release: Legislative Changes Further Enhance Road Safety and Consumer Protection

News Release: Road Safety Improvements a Major Focus as Ministers Responsible for Highway Safety Gather for Annual Meeting

News Release: Proposed Changes to Highway Traffic Act Will Allow for Further Improvements to Public Safety

Highway Traffic Act

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @DGS_GovNL

Media contact
Krista Dalton
Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca