Highway Fatalities in Quebec Increased in 2017, Distracted Driving is 2nd-Most Common Cause

In 2017, highway fatalities have increased in Quebec with distracted driving overtaking driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol as the second-most common cause of fatal collisions.

The number one killer on Quebec’s roads is still speeding, responsible for one in three fatal collisions in 2017. However, the report from la Sûreté du Québec shows a 13 percent decrease in deaths caused by speeding year-over-year.

The total number of fatal collisions in 2017 was 244, which is a slight increase from 240 in 2016. The total number of fatalities in 2017 climbed 3.5 percent, for a total of 269 deaths last year.

In a statement, SQ spokesperson Lt. Jason Allard said:

“I think it’s important for people to understand, that are on the road that distracted driving is not just having a cell phone.

Eating a Big Mac and holding a soft drink while driving can be a distraction, as well.”

Police are urging young drivers to verbalize their concern when they are riding in a car with a reckless driver.

[via CBC News]

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