Commercial vehicle crashes up in Ontario

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 that cause these types of collisions.

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, according to a news release.

Heading into the second half of 2021, 2,956 CMV-involved crashes have occurred, up 9% over 2020 and accounting for close to 13% of the total number of collisions on OPP-patrolled roads this year.

Improper lane changes, following too closely, speeding and driver inattention on the part of CMV operators and drivers of other involved vehicles are leading factors in this year’s large truck-related collisions.

The OPP says 78% of CMV collisions occurred on provincial highways.

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 from July 11 to 17, 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.