Driving along the Trans Canada Highway in Newfoundland and Labrador this summer may have led to traffic standstills due to motor vehicle accidents causing complete road closures. RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey expressed concern over the rising number of incidents, citing the RCMP’s response to 14 fatal roadway accidents from January to July. O’Donaghey emphasized that many of these collisions could have been prevented.
He urged all drivers on the T.C.H. to exercise caution and allocate extra time for their journeys. Notably, a significant portion of the accidents leading to closures involved commercial transport vehicles. Chris Howlett from Akita Equipment suggested that unfamiliarity with Newfoundland roads, particularly among out-of-town truckers, could contribute to the problem.
Howlett highlighted the challenges of navigating Newfoundland’s hilly terrain and two-lane highways, which may require additional skills. He also pointed out that inexperience and distractions are common factors among both new and mainland drivers. Collaboration between the RCMP and commercial vehicle enforcement is ongoing, although the exact reasons behind the surge in accidents involving commercial vehicles remain unclear.
O’Donaghey explained that road closures are determined based on safety assessments conducted by crash analysts at accident scenes. While alternative measures like single-lane use or detours are considered, full road closures are sometimes deemed the safest option for all involved. These closures aid in preserving crucial evidence for investigations into the accidents.
Despite the frustrations caused by road closures, O’Donaghey emphasized that these decisions are made with utmost care and communicated to motorists promptly. The investigation process and safety reassessments following accidents may cause delays in reopening roads, particularly when tractor trailers are involved. It is vital for all drivers to be mindful of their impact on the collection of evidence at accident scenes.
