This release was issued under a previous government.

An online survey will be available to all Albertans and results will help inform amendments to the Traffic Safety Act.

People are invited to visit alberta.ca/traffic-safety-act-consultation from now until Sept. 25 to participate in the survey.

OHV Helmets

Alberta Health Services (AHS) data show that between 2009 and 2013, on average, more than 21 people were killed in Alberta as a result of OHV use each year. Medical examiner statistics show that 41 per cent of ATV deaths are a result of head injuries.

Any changes to the law will not apply to helmets worn on private land. Survey respondents will also be asked for their thoughts on additional exemptions based on age of riders and what the OHV is being used for.

Excessive Speed

Alberta Transportation statistics show that, on average, there are 1,165 convictions for speeding more than 50 km/h over the limit in the province each year. Drivers travelling at this speed are subject to a mandatory court appearance where a judge can impose penalties such as a fine or licence suspension.

Participants will help determine if more severe penalties for excessive speed are needed and what penalties are appropriate.

Quick facts – OHVs

  • Between 2009 and 2013, on average, more than 21 people died annually as a result of OHV use.
  • In 2014, nine people died and 173 were injured in collisions involving an OHV.
  • In 2013, 12 people died in ATV-related incidents.
  • More than 40 per cent of ATV deaths are the result of head injuries.
  • The number of hospital admissions related to OHV usage rose by more than 40 per cent between 2002 and 2014.
  • Children under the age of 16 account for:
    • 15 per cent of ATV-related deaths
    • 16.7 per cent of off-road motorcycle deaths
    • 37.5 per cent of off-road utility vehicle deaths
  • ATV-related incidents resulted in as much as $16 million in direct health-care costs in 2013.

Quick facts – Excessive Speeding

  • The current fine for driving 50 km/h over the posted speed limit is $474.
  • A driver exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h must appear in court, where other penalties may be ordered.
  • Across Canada, the definition of excessive speeding ranges from 25 to 50 km/h over the posted limit:
    • Five provinces (BC, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Nova Scotia and Quebec) have vehicle seizure as a penalty.
    • Two provinces (Ontario and Quebec) have immediate road-side licence suspension as a penalty.
  • Unsafe speed is a factor in 25 per cent of fatal collisions on Alberta roadways.