The Police Directors Association of Quebec has reported that the total number of deaths on roads in the province declined by five percent in 2023 compared to 2022, with a total of 370 fatalities last year, a decrease of 22 compared to the previous year. The most significant decrease was among pedestrians, with a 23 percent drop year over year. However, advocates for pedestrian safety caution that while they are relieved by the improved numbers, the previous year was the worst on record for pedestrian deaths in 15 years. They emphasize the need for continued efforts to make road infrastructure more pedestrian-friendly, including making crosswalks more visible and adding more of them to roads.
There was no change in the total number of cyclist deaths between 2022 and 2023, with nine people on bikes dying each year. Cycling safety advocates note a recent downward trend in deaths, attributed to safety measures such as physical separators between bike lanes and roads. Jean-François Rheault, president of Vélo Québec, highlights the importance of separating cyclists from vehicles or reducing car speeds to improve cyclist safety. Montreal police officials have announced plans to increase officer presence to crack down on pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers who do not adhere to road rules and the Quebec Highway Safety Code. Advocates underscore the need for ongoing public awareness campaigns to promote road safety and mutual respect between road users.
While 2023 saw a decrease in road fatalities in Quebec, advocates emphasize the importance of sustained efforts to improve road safety for all users. Sandrine Cabana-Degani of Piétons Québec notes the inadequacy of current road designs, which prioritize car flow over pedestrian safety. She calls for additional measures to enhance pedestrian safety, such as making crosswalks more visible and increasing their numbers on roads. The Quebec government has been urged to invest in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to continue reducing pedestrian deaths and creating safer road environments.
The decline in road deaths in 2023 reflects positive progress in efforts to improve road safety in Quebec. However, advocates stress that more work is needed to sustain these improvements and prevent future fatalities. As part of these efforts, Montreal police plan to intensify their presence on the roads, monitoring and enforcing compliance with traffic regulations. Safety advocates will also continue their public awareness campaign to educate road users on the importance of respecting the rules of the road and sharing the road responsibly. Collaboration between law enforcement, advocacy groups, and government agencies will be crucial in promoting a culture of safety and reducing road deaths in Quebec.
In conclusion, while the decrease in road fatalities in 2023 is a positive development, advocates and officials emphasize the need for continued efforts to improve road safety for all users in Quebec. Safety measures such as separate bike lanes and increased officer presence are highlighted as effective strategies to reduce road deaths. Advocates stress the importance of enhancing pedestrian infrastructure and promoting mutual respect among road users. Public awareness campaigns will play a vital role in educating the public on road safety practices, with the goal of further reducing fatalities and creating safer road environments in the province. Ongoing collaboration between stakeholders will be essential in achieving these objectives and sustaining progress in road safety initiatives.
