Road Safety

2008 Campaign

In 2008, the SAAQ encouraged its partners to continue their youth awareness efforts.

Young people under age 15 are of particular concern as this age group represents 29% of victims. According to the estimated degree of risk associated with cyclists, the rate of victims per 100,000 cyclists is approximately twice as high for this age group. In 2006, the rate of helmet use among youth aged 10-15 was estimated at 29%. It is known that head injuries account for approximately 60% of deaths and 30% of serious injuries requiring hospitalization. Awareness efforts for spring and summer 2008 were conducted as follows.

Working with Police Forces
The SAAQ encouraged Québec police forces and Vélo-Sécur (in French) patrollers to step up awareness efforts on the importance of wearing helmets and obeying safety rules.

The 2008 campaign was conducted between May 19 and June 16. Police officers promoted cycling awareness with the help of the Safe Cycling Guide. All police forces and Vélo-Sécur patrollers worked together to educate cyclists during this period and throughout the summer season.

Public and Community Efforts
In 2008, the SAAQ offered a kit entitled Les énigmes de Génivélo and its copiable material to police officers for purposes of organizing bicycle safety awareness activities for children aged 7 to 12. Some 3,000 kits have been distributed since 1997 and police officers were encouraged to distribute them to interested community groups (Optimist Clubs, recreation services, etc.), and physical education teachers.