In the previous article, we outlined our Action2Zero project with the Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF). You might be wondering why the Coalition for Safer Alberta Roads has chosen TIRF as our ‘road tripping’ partner. The Coalition is always on the lookout for data to support our community initiatives along Highways 40, 43, 63 and 881, and with TIRF’s expertise in providing road safety research, this is an ideal partnership. For the Coalition it’s like travelling with someone who has the best tools to help navigate to your destination, and both of our organizations are headed in the same direction, to support all of us in driving to zero every day.

TIRF is a registered charity and an independent road safety research institute that has been in operation for over five decades. Their evidence-based approach will complement the Coalition’s work on Highways 40, 43, 63 and 881. TIRF is dedicated to:

Measuring the problem. More than 90% of road crashes are caused by driver error or condition. Through its research, TIRF is improving understanding of why drivers behave as they do in order to create more effective interventions to promote safe driving behaviours.
Developing and implementing solutions. Programs and policies aimed at improving road safety must address the underlying causes of road crashes. TIRF’s research is the foundation to develop evidence-based programs and policies, as well as sound legislation targeting young drivers, impaired drivers, fatigued drivers, distracted drivers and commercial vehicle drivers, as well as other road safety concerns.

Evaluation. In an era of declining resources, investment is needed in strategies that have proven results. TIRF’s work to evaluate a broad spectrum of road safety policies and programs helps governments and other stakeholders identify effective solutions.

Knowledge transfer. Making progress requires shared knowledge and understanding of policies and programs and coordinated efforts across all sectors to improve road safety. TIRF has developed a “systems” approach to bridge gaps and build partnerships among agencies and practitioners that are affected by road crashes. Knowledge transfer and skill development are critical features of these initiatives.

The Coalition and our members have seen a decline in governments’ investment on-road safety data and with TIRF’s expertise in road safety research, this initiative will help to fill the gap. These results will enable the Coalition, our members and the communities that undertake this survey, to make positive data-driven decisions on road safety.

Additional information on TIRF’s educational programs can be found here.