The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reporting a significant increase in commercial motor vehicle (CMV)-related fatal collisions – a clear sign that many drivers are disregarding the additional risks these types of collisions carry.
From January 1 to June 30, 2021, the OPP responded to 32 fatal crashes that involved a CMV, compared to 23 such collisions at this time last year.
Heading into the second half of 2021, 2,956 CMV-involved crashes have occurred, up nine (9) per cent over 2020 and accounting for close to 13 per cent of the total number of collisions on OPP-patrolled roads this year.
Improper lane changes, following too closely, speeding and driver inattention on th e part of CMV operators and drivers of other involved vehicles are leading factors in this year’s large truck-related collisions.
A CMV can weigh in excess of 60,000 kg and, travelling at speeds of 80 to 105 km/h, generates significant momentum and energy, increasing the risk of fatality when involved in a crash with other vehicles.
During the one-week Operation Safe Driver campaign, OPP officers will be highly visible conducting enforcement and education aimed a CMV operators and other drivers, exercising zero tolerance with any motorists observed engaging in risky driving in and around these large vehicles. CMV inspections will also be conducted in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation.
Operation Safe Driver is led by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), with enforcement and education initiatives conducted throughout North America. The goal of the campaign is to enhance CMV and non-commercial vehicle driver safety.
QUICK FACTS
On OPP-patrolled roads over the last five-year period (2016-2020):
Improper lane changes were the leading contributing factor in CMV collisions.
Seventy eight (78) per cent of CMV collisions occurred on provincial highways.
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Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
