Fatality rates on Manitoba roadways have been steadily decreasing over the last two decades, Manitoba Public Insurance announced today ─ the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims in Canada.
According to data collected by Manitoba Public Insurance, there were 85 fatalities on public roads in 2013, which is a decline of 11.5 per cent from the 96 fatalities reported in 2012, and a decline of 9.6 per cent from the preceding five-year average (2008-2012).
Last year ─ 2013 ─ had the fewest auto-collision fatalities (85) in the last 20 years. For the last five years (2009-2013), the fatality rate was 1.1 (per 10,000 drivers) compared to a fatality rate of 1.5 in the five years previous (2004-2008). This year there have been 59 fatalities as of the end of October.
“One fatality is too many and there are real people behind these numbers,” said MaryAnn Kempe, Vice-President, Business Development, Communications & Chief Product Officer, Manitoba Public Insurance.
“But these statistics show that Manitoba is moving in right direction with respect to road safety. Manitoba Public Insurance and other like-minded agencies continue to raise awareness, educate motorists and provide unique programs designed specifically towards loss prevention.”
About National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims
The National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims in Canada is a day set aside to remember those killed or seriously injured on Canadian roads, often in avoidable collisions, and those left to deal with the sudden and unexpected loss of people they love.
Manitoba Public Insurance and its road safety partners are committed to encouraging safe driving behaviour with the ultimate goal of reducing fatalities and serious injuries. The public auto insurer is an active member of the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA), which is spearheading today’s seventh annual National Day of Remembrance for road crash victims.