Vélo Québec and Piétons Québec have asked provincial party leaders to implement a new risk index for heavy vehicles, aiming to cut the number of collisions involving cyclists and pedestrians across Quebec. The groups presented the proposal on Wednesday, emphasizing that a systematic assessment of heavy‑vehicle routes could help protect vulnerable road users.
The two advocacy organizations said the index would evaluate factors such as vehicle size, speed, and traffic density to identify high‑risk corridors. By integrating this data into planning and enforcement, they argue that policymakers could target interventions where the likelihood of serious accidents is greatest.
Supporters pointed to evidence from cities such as London, where the introduction of a similar risk‑assessment tool was linked to an almost 40% reduction in accidents involving heavy vehicles and vulnerable users. The groups highlighted that result as a benchmark for what could be achieved in Quebec if comparable measures were adopted.
Collisions between large trucks and smaller road users have been a persistent concern in the province, with cyclists and pedestrians accounting for a notable share of serious injuries. Vélo Québec and Piétons Québec noted that despite existing traffic safety initiatives, the sheer size and momentum of heavy vehicles continue to pose a disproportionate threat to those on foot or on bicycles.
Party leaders have been invited to review the index framework and consider its incorporation into transportation policy. The groups indicated they will continue to monitor the discussion and provide additional data to support the case for adoption. If embraced, the index could become a tool for municipalities and provincial agencies to prioritize safety improvements, potentially lowering the number of heavy‑vehicle collisions with vulnerable road users in Quebec.
The call comes as part of a broader effort to enhance road safety for all users, aligning with provincial goals to reduce traffic‑related injuries and fatalities.