Recent fatal collisions renew calls for improved road safety in northern Ontario

NDP members in northern Ontario say ‘enough is enough.’

They say a recent string of fatal motor vehicle collisions highlights the need for safety improvements.

Many of the collisions occurred on highways just to the west of Thunder Bay.

Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Lise Vaugeois says she is heartbroken by the deaths.

“The number of deaths is hard to fathom,” says Vaugeois.

“So many families are grieving. It’s really awful. It’s been awful.”

Guy Bourgouin, the NDP member for the Riding of Mushkegowuk—James Bay, has four times brought forward a Private Member’s Bill proposing safety measures.

The most recent efforts were rejected by the legislature last November.

Vaugeois says one of the most immediate needs is for the province to take back winter road maintenance.

“We’d like to see it come back to the MTO so that it’s consistent,” says Vaugeois.

“We’d like to see the same standard of clearing as they have on the 400 series highways, and that would be eight hours of clearing instead of 12.”

Vaugeois also wants to see improved training for truck drivers and enforcement of their driving laws by ensuring MTO inspection stations are fully staffed and regularly open.

Vaugeois also seeks highway improvements.

She says there are long stretches, especially on Highway 11, where there are no passing lanes or proper shoulders.

“So, there’s nowhere to pull off. There’s no way to get out of the way if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, we see these head-on collisions that just shouldn’t be happening.”

Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland says there are efforts on the government side to improve road safety.

In a statement, Holland says highway safety matters to him on a personal level.

He states he is using his experience as a former Mayor of Conmee and volunteer firefighter who responded to highway collisions in conversations with the Ministry of Transportation.

“This is not an abstract issue for me,” states Holland.

“Improving highway safety is an ongoing effort that requires coordination, focus and action. I will continue to work closely with the Ministry, municipal partners and law enforcement to deliver meaningful improvements and ensure our highways are safer for all drivers.”

Holland adds he is also working with the Ministry on a planned four-laning of the Trans Canada Highway between Thunder Bay and Shabaqua.

He says surveying is currently taking place.