Auto collisions on the rise after three-year decline in Burlington, Oakville, Milton

There were more collisions on roads in Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills last year.

But a study presented to Halton Regional Council showed the 3,300 incidents was a return to numbers similar to 2018 and 2019, pre-pandemic, following a drop in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

“Despite the increase in collisions, long-term collision statistics suggest serious collisions (i.e. collisions resulting in non-fatal or fatal injuries) continue to decrease while overall population and trips increase,” reads the report from Andrew Farr, commissioner, Public Works.

In 2023, 12 per cent of all collisions resulted in injuries or fatalities which is consistent with trends over the last two decades. Since 2004, the ratio of serious collisions has declined despite the growth of Halton Region and the regional road network.

At its peak in 2005, approximately one in four collisions, or 24 per cent, resulted in non-fatal or fatal injuries. However, the rate of serious collisions has decreased to about one in 11, or 12 per cent.

“That is to say, despite overall growth in population and traffic exposure, the rate of serious collisions has reduced from an approximate one in four to one in 11 occurrence.”

The report attributes the decrease to improvements in transportation infrastructure design, vehicle safety, and regional efforts such as the Comprehensive Road Safety Action Plan, Transportation Operation and Safety Study, Red Light Camera Program, Annual Speed Review, and Drive SAFE (Safety Awareness For Everyone) campaigns.

“Routine maintenance, capital resurfacing and reconstruction projects also contribute to the safety of regional roads. Enforcement by the Halton Regional Police Service, along with promotion and education by Halton Region, are also integral components to the safe management of the Regional Road Network.”

The report concludes by saying, overall, the regional transportation system is operating well, with regional roads offering a smooth, convenient, safe, and efficient mode of travel.

“Through on-going investment into capital expansion, state-of-good repair works, and operational improvement measures, the performance of the system will continue to meet or exceed current levels of service.”