Motor vehicle collisions are the second leading cause of death among young people in Canada. And drivers aged 16 to 24 are more likely than any other age group to be speeding at the time of a fatal crash. In fact, speeding plays a role in one third of teen driver deaths.
Parachute, Canada’s national charity dedicated to injury prevention, is trying to convince young drivers to lay off the gas, and slow down. As part of this year’s
National Teen Driver Safety Week campaign (October 18 to 24) they’re trying to make young drivers aware of the risks of speeding, impaired, distracted and aggressive driving
. This year, they’re also focusing on rail safety.
“Teens need to know that #SpeedIsNoGame,” says Pamela Fuselli, President and CEO of Parachute. “Drivers who speed are at higher risk for crashes and more severe injuries, and pedestrians struck by a driver at higher speeds are less likely to survive.”
Working together to help young people stay safe on Canada’s roads
Unfortunately, speeding and distracted or impaired driving can cost teens more than just their licenses or a hefty fine. It can cost them their lives—especially if tracks and trains are involved. That’s why educating teens about the rail safety basics is a key step in ensuring they stay safe on the roads.
"Throughout National Teen Driver Safety Week, we want to drive home the message to young people that an unsafe decision made in a split second can change their life—or end it,” says Sarah Mayes, National Director of Operation Lifesaver Canada. “Speeding or failing to slow down when approaching a crossing, or going around a lowered gate to try to beat an oncoming train can have devastating consequences for any driver, including teens.”
So, whether you’re a young driver yourself, or have a young person in your life, have a conversation about how to stay safe behind the wheel. Help Parachute and Operation Lifesaver spread the safety message on social media, using the hashtags
#SpeedIsNoGame,
#NTDSW2020, and
#KnowWhatImpairedMeans. By working together, we can reduce the number of young people dying on Canadian roads.