Road Safety

2009 Campaign

In 2009, 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 25% of victims. According to the estimated degree of risk associated with cyclists, the rate of victims per 100,000 cyclists is 38 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 2009 campaign was conducted between May 19 and June 19. On that occasion, police officers distributed the 5th edition of the Safe Cycling Guide and a leaflet about sharing the road Same Lanes Same Laws... Be Courteous! The contribution of Québec police forces and Vélo-Sécur patrollers plays a major role in the safety of these vulnerable road users.

Public and Community Efforts
In 2009, 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 3,500 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. Each year, more than 1,000 helmets are distributed among police forces requesting equipment to motivate young people to participate in Génivélo activities.

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