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HomeMy WebLinkAboutGoderich Signal Star, 2017-04-26, Page 17Marked increases in 2016 Ontario deaths on and off the road OPP 2016 annual traffic data reflects ongoing poor behaviours The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has firmed up its 2016 traffic data, which revealed increases in many fatality categories, including the most tragic snowmobile season in 14 years. The OPP is sharing the data publicly to raise aware- ness of the impact ongoing behaviours have on the number of deaths on Ontario roads, waterways and trails. A total of 307 people were killed in motor vehicle colli- sions in 2016, marking a four-year high. Every year, without excep- tion, the majority of the fatalities are attributed to the "Big Four" main causal fac- tors in road deaths. Three are linked to driver behaviour (aggressive, inat- tentive and impaired driv- ing). The fourth (lack of seat belt use) applies to drivers and passengers. `These behaviours were responsible for 165 (more than half) of last year's 307 deaths with little change over the previous year. In 2016, out of the 307 vehicle related deaths, 55 were caused by speed, 65 by inattentiveness, and '15 caused by relation to alcohol or drugs. The OPP investigated 67, 372 motor vehicle collisions in 2016, marking another four-year high are the 275 collisions that resulted in fatalities. Sadly, 2016 marked the highest number of pedes- trian deaths in more than 12 years, with 39 deaths. There were 25 such deaths in 2015. The year 2009 was the last time the number exceeded 30 deaths. 2016 marked the highest number of marine deaths in three years, with 23 people dying in 19 incidents on OPP-patrolled waterways. Seven of last year's fatal inci- dents involved non -motor- ized vessels, for example, canoes or kayaks. Falling overboard was the primary cause in nine of the incidents. Capsized or File photo The 2016 traffic data reflects an increase in deaths on the road. swamped vessels were involved in seven of them and alcohol in eight of the incidents. Every year, the majority of the victims are found not wearing a Personal Floata- tion Device (PFD). Last year, 19 of the 23 victims found with no PFD and in 2015, all of the deceased were found without one. "Our traffic data is com- pelling evidence that poor, careless behaviour is at the core of the majority of the fatal collisions and incidents Enjoy the reliability ,of rechargeable hearing a • Enjoy continuous, stable and uninterrupted power throughout your day • Recharge your batteries while you sleep • Avoid the hassle of disposable batteries • Replace your batteries only once a year at your annual checkup SOUND THERAPY HEARING CENTRE www.soundtherapyhearing.com we investigate on roads, waterways and trails. Despite the hard facts, some people fail to grasp the mag- nitude of their role in pre- venting these senseless deaths," said OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair, Provincial Commander, Traffic Safety and Opera- tional Support. "The OPP remains committed to changing these costly behav- iours through robust enforcement and education campaigns. The rest is up to Ontarians." _yY Wednesday, April 26, 2017 • Signal Star 17 Deadline approaches for preserving Huron's Heritage May 1 is the next dead- line for individuals and organizations to submit applications for the Huron Heritage Fund. The Iluron Ileritage Fund encourages the preservation of heritage assets, publications and activities of heritage importance to the County of Huron and its residents. Past projects have included support for res- toration work at Hensall Heritage Hall and Slo- man School Car Museum in Clinton. Groups such as The Huron Pioneer Threshers and the Goderich Celtic Folk Society have also accessed these funds for projects in recent years. The fund has also been used to support the pub- lication of books such as Stories of Stained Glass as St. George's Church by Eleanor Smith. "The County will con- tribute up to 50% of the costs of a project to a maximum of $5,000, says Meighan Wark, Director of Cultural Services. This investment lever- ages other groups or individuals to invest in Huron County's heritage also. Projects will assist in the preservation and res- toration of heritage land- marks, historic buildings, and objects of historical significance not owned by the County of Huron. Heritage events and publications may also qualify for support under this program. An increased focus is being placed on the local tourism impacts of the projects as well their abil- ity to build heritage capac- ity in Huron County. More information about the application process can be found on the County's web site and brochures are also availa- ble at all public libraries in Huron County. Hering Open House May 10', 2017 1 9am - 5pm During this event, we will offer: FREE hearing screening and consultation • FREE technology demonstration of both Muse hearing aids and ZPower° rechargeable batteries • 60 -DAY risk-free trial* • FREE clean and check of your current hearing aids • 12 -MONTH special financing available** • REFRESHMENTS will be served E AN APPOINTMENT AS SPACE IS LIMITED -519-440-0033 44 Newgate Street, Goderich, ON •Deposit may be required. ••Subject to credit approval or see clinic for details.