Why Do Car Accidents Happen in Edmonton?

posted in: Personal Injury

Edmonton is a thriving city with a growing population and bustling streets. However, with more people on the road, car accidents are an unfortunate reality. According to the Vision Zero Annual Report, since Edmonton adopted Vision Zero in 2015, traffic fatalities have decreased by 50% and serious injuries by 32%. Despite these efforts, accidents still occur, and understanding why is critical to improving road safety and helping those affected.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, consulting with an experienced Edmonton car accident lawyer from KMSC Law’s Injury Law Team can provide the guidance and support needed to navigate the legal complexities that often follow. Our injury law team is dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve.

Why Do These Accidents Happen in Edmonton?

Many accidents in Edmonton are caused by driver error. Some common mistakes that increase the risk of accidents include reckless driving, distracted driving, and impaired driving. Below is a closer look at each cause and how they impact our city’s roads.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is a significant contributing factor to car accidents in Edmonton. Whether drivers are ignoring traffic laws, speeding, or engaging in aggressive driving, reckless behaviour endangers everyone on the road.

Speeding

Even though Edmonton lowered the speed limit on many residential streets to 40 km/h as part of its Vision Zero initiative, speeding remains a concern. According to the Vision Zero 2021 Annual Report, reducing speeds is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents because slower speeds allow drivers more time to react. Unfortunately, many drivers still exceed the speed limit, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving is another dangerous behaviour on Edmonton’s roads. Tailgating, weaving between lanes, and road rage can cause drivers to make impulsive and unsafe decisions. These actions create tension and often lead to accidents, especially during rush hour or on high-traffic streets like Whyte Avenue and Jasper Avenue.

Running Red Lights

Running red lights is a reckless behaviour that often leads to severe accidents, particularly at busy intersections. While Edmonton has installed red light cameras at key intersections, incidents of drivers running red lights still pose significant risks. The Vision Zero report highlights the importance of ongoing enforcement to deter this dangerous behaviour.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Edmonton. Drivers who take their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, increase the likelihood of a collision. Common distractions include:

• Texting while driving: Using a mobile device to send or read messages is particularly dangerous because it requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention.
• Talking on the phone: Even hands-free phone calls can distract a driver’s cognitive focus, impairing their ability to make quick decisions.
• Other distractions: Eating, adjusting the radio or GPS, and interacting with passengers are all forms of distraction that reduce a driver’s ability to focus on the road.

The Vision Zero report emphasizes the need for continued education and enforcement to reduce distracted driving incidents. Those who cause accidents while distracted can be held liable for the damages they cause.

Impaired Driving

Impaired driving is a serious and preventable cause of car accidents in Edmonton. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs severely impairs judgment, reaction time, and motor coordination. According to the Vision Zero report, despite Edmonton’s efforts to reduce impaired driving, it remains a significant issue, contributing to many severe and fatal crashes each year.

Edmonton has worked hard to reduce impaired driving incidents through public education and enforcement, but the risk remains. Anyone injured by a drunk or impaired driver may be able to file a personal injury claim and seek compensation for their medical bills, lost earnings, and other damages.

Other Factors Contributing to Car Accidents in Edmonton

While driver error accounts for many accidents, other factors, such as inexperienced drivers, poor road conditions, and weather also play a role.

Inexperienced Drivers

Inexperience on the road increases the likelihood of car accidents. Newly licensed drivers, particularly teenagers, may not have the experience necessary to react quickly or make safe decisions in challenging driving conditions. Inexperience can lead to risky behaviour, such as underestimating the speed of oncoming traffic or failing to maintain a safe distance between vehicles.

Poor Road Conditions

Edmonton’s roads have improved significantly under the Vision Zero initiative, but hazards such as potholes, uneven pavement, and inadequate signage still pose a risk. Poorly maintained roads can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, particularly during winter months when snow and ice are prevalent.

For motorcyclists and cyclists, poor road conditions can be especially dangerous, leading to accidents that result in serious injuries.

Weather Conditions

Edmonton experiences harsh winter conditions that can make driving hazardous. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility require drivers to slow down and adjust their behaviour to prevent accidents. Failing to adapt to these conditions is a common cause of accidents during the colder months.

How KMSC Law Can Help You

Car accidents can happen for many reasons, and understanding these causes is essential for preventing future incidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, our team of Edmonton car accident lawyers at KMSC Law is here to help. We will fight to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

Contact The Injury Law Team at KMSC Law today for a free consultation!