Accident numbers drop
New Brunswick has seen a year with a great drop in the number of people killed in traffic collisions. The numbers so far are the best in 50 years.
So far 2009 has had 37 fatal crashes, in which 41 people died. The numbers have been steadily going down. Last year by the end of August it was 50, in 2007 it was 46, in 2006 it was 74 and in the year 2005 there were 79 people who had died in car crashes.
Why are there less accidents?
Why are the numbers down? The insurance answer could be graduated licensing system for new drivers. Other factors would be improved road design, the twinning of the the Trans-Canada Highway, safer vehicles, drivers are being more careful and increased police presence.
Seat belts help save lives
Even with 2009 having this all time low record there is a need for higher seat belt compliance in the province. The RCMP say people need to be aware of how important a part your seat belt plays in keeping you alive in a crash situation.
The RCMP estimate that 40% of people killed on New Brunswick roads were not wearing seat belts at the time of the impact. There could have been 12 people who lived through the collisions this year that did not survive.
What will the police do to try to enforce the seat belt use? Look for more check stop operations. These could take place at any time. The check stops will be looking for proof of registration, license, safety inspections and seat belt use.
Protect the children
September means back to school for the children. The police all over New Brunswick will be patrolling bus routes, school zones, and crosswalks to help ensure the safety of school kids.
Drivers need to be aware that when a school bus has its lights flashing, traffic in both directions must come to a complete stop. Children may be crossing the road. Drivers may only proceed once the bus driver has turned off the red lights.
RCMP in New Brunswick take speeding in school zones very seriously. The minimum fine for speeding in a school zone is $340.50, while the maximum is $1204.50.
How does this affect your insurance costs?
The insurance answer is that wearing seat belts will help save lives. To keep your insurance costs down then do what is right. Keep your affairs in order with current safety tests, registration and licensing. Obey the traffic laws. Not passing in a playground, school zone or passing a school bus will not only save you fine money but money on your insurance policy.
New Brunswick reduces accidents