OTTAWA POLICE SERVICE TRAFFIC PLAN

What the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Traffic Plan Means to You By Sergeant Edward Yeoumans, Traffic Services 07/2017

OTTAWA POLICE SERVICE A Trusted Partner in Community Safety SERVICE DE POLICE D’OTTAWA Un partenaire fiable de la sécurité communautaire A THANK YOU TO… our community partners and stakeholders:

• Safer Roads Ottawa (SRO)

• Special Events Advisory Team (SEAT)

• Traffic Incident Management Group (TIMG)

• Transport Canada

• Parks Canada

• Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO)

• Ontario Snowmobile Association (OSA)

• National Capital Heavy Construction Association (NCHCA)

• and many others. CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 5 GET THERE WITH CARE...... 7 HIGH POLICE VISIBILITY ...... 7 OUTREACH...... 8

TRAFFIC PLAN PREVIEW...... 11 IMPAIRED DRIVING (Includes Impaired by Drugs)...... 12 DISTRACTED DRIVING...... 13 AGGRESSIVE DRIVING (Speeding, Stunt and Careless)...... 14 SEATBELT COMPLIANCE (Fail to Use or Improper Child Restraint) ...... 16 VULNERABLE ROAD USERS (Cyclists, Motorcyclists and Pedestrians)...... 17 TRAFFIC COMPLAINTS ...... 19 TECHNOLOGY & OPPORTUNITIES...... 20 DESIGNATED TRAFFIC UNITS...... 21

CONCLUSION...... 25

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TRAFFIC PLAN OTTAWA POLICE SERVICE

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Traffic Plan reducing injuries and saving lives. The plan has been developed to improve road, trail and is based on not only education and enforcement waterway safety within the City of Ottawa. but with engineering in mind, which includes Road safety is one of the organization’s top highway and intersection design. Leadership priorities, and it’s incumbent on all members and coordinated efforts are critical to the of the OPS to work towards making our city’s success of this plan. streets safer for all users. The philosophy is to promote this safety through intelligence-led, The OPS and municipal partners have estab- evidence-based, proactive enforcement, lished a new working group to help prevent fatal coupled with our education and community collisions on Ottawa roads. The Fatal Collision partners. It is aligned with the national and Review Committee (FCRC), which is a multi- ­provincial traffic safety goals and with the agency initiative comprised of the OPS, Safer City’s Safer Roads Ottawa (SRO) program, Roads Ottawa, the City of Ottawa, and the titled “Towards Zero.” The ultimate goal of the Eastern Regional Supervising Coroner’s Office, Traffic Plan is the reduction of collisions involving is meant to provide insightful information to fatalities and injuries for all road users. its members so key recommendations can be made and acted upon without delay, in The plan is intended to raise awareness of the hope of reducing future fatal collisions traffic safety as a serious issue, to educate occurring with similar trends and factors. road users on the rules of the road, encourage compliance, and actively engage hard-to-reach Achieving road, trail and waterway safety is a audiences in order to contribute to a reduction coordinated responsibility and the collabora- of injuries and fatalities. At the same time, each tion of all stakeholders is critical to its success. element is designed to be flexible enough Community partners include Safer Roads Ottawa, to support legislation, enforcement, regional Special Events Advisory Team (SEAT) and the initiatives and emerging challenges as they Traffic Incident Management Group (TIMG). arise. Where traffic-safety issues are concerned, The OPS regularly communicates with a variety social media (Twitter / Facebook) can be used of stakeholders including: Transport Canada, in achieving the goal of reaching residents. Parks Canada, the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO), the Ontario Snowmobile This plan recognizes and fully supports the Association, the National Capital Heavy requirement for broad stakeholder consultation ­Construction Association and many others. and the development of partnerships in the delivery of traffic-safety initiatives. Existing As a member of Safer Roads Ottawa, the OPS partnerships need to be continued and maintains a strong connection with Citizens strengthened. Multi-disciplinary resources Area Riders and a number of other groups are focused on a common strategic goal – that represent other road users.

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Traffic plans are put into place once the OPS is advised of any The Traffic Plan is a proactive, major events that could impact traffic moving safely throughout ­sustainable approach to traffic safety the Nation’s Capital. There is an expectation that organizers of directed at high-risk behaviours. these events will apply for permits that allow for proper planning It focuses on eight road, trail and by the OPS to ensure public safety is maintained. This is not waterway safety priorities to be always the case with many spontaneous events, like public targeted through enforcement: demonstrations, occurring throughout the year, resulting in traffic issues that require police attendance on an ad-hoc basis. 1. Impaired driving (includes impaired by The OPS will set up road closures, if necessary, at the location drugs); OUR MOTTO of any incident if the risk to public safety is evident. Road closures are set up to minimize interference to traffic flow around the 2. Distracted driving location. The use of barricades and signage will assist with any (e.g. cellphone); road closure and can be requested by an officer on the scene through dispatch. Roads should be re-opened as soon as 3. Aggressive driving practicable. (includes speeding, stunt, dangerous driving and The aim is to reduce fatal-, injury- and property-damage collisions running red lights); for ALL road, trail and waterway users, year over year. 4. Seatbelt compliance The 2015 Public Survey on Policing Services placed distracted (includes ALL passengers); driving and speeding/aggressive driving as one of the primary safety concerns for residents in Ottawa. 5. Intelligence-led enforcement (identified high collision locations); STRATEGIC GOAL 6. Safer roads for all All officers will educate the motoring public so they understand vulnerable road users traffic and related laws, and why it is important to pay attention (cyclists, motorcyclists and to good operating habits and equipment safety on the roads, pedestrians); trails, and waterways. Whether the contact is a ticket or other means, officers are expected to use every opportunity to com- 7. Trail and waterway users municate the strategic goal – to reduce injuries and save lives. (marine/ATV/snowmobiles— safety, enforcement and The Traffic Plan is a living document and will be regularly education); and, revised and updated with modified goals, safety programs and collision data, affording necessary adjustments, in tandem with 8. Traffic complaint analysis the OPS Business Plan. The plan will be reviewed annually at (reported complaints from the traffic meeting where all stakeholders will be able to give the public). feedback and ideas for strategies for the year ahead. The OPS meets every month with its City of Ottawa Traffic Safety partners and liaises regularly with all of its stakeholders, including: Ontario Provincial Police; Military Police; Gatineau Police; and Safer Roads Ottawa.

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The Traffic Plan is a proactive, ­sustainable approach to traffic safety directed at high-risk behaviours. It focuses on eight road, trail and waterway safety priorities to be targeted through enforcement: “Get There

1. Impaired driving (includes impaired by With Care” drugs); OUR MOTTO

2. Distracted driving (e.g. cellphone); Our motto, “Get There With Care,” will be HIGH POLICE VISIBILITY 3. Aggressive driving communicated to internal and external (includes speeding, stunt, stakeholders in a message and model. It Violators who engage in high-risk driving dangerous driving and will become the fabric of our messaging, behaviour threaten the safety of all motorists, running red lights); ­educational sessions, videos, and all forms pedestrians and other road users, and should of media; internally to OPS members, and be dealt with by an active police presence. 4. Seatbelt compliance externally to our community. The more visible police officers are as they (includes ALL passengers); conduct their everyday duties, the more they create an impression of omnipresence that 5. Intelligence-led INCREASING MEMBER AWARENESS will lead to the deterrence of traffic violations. enforcement (identified AND COMMITMENT TO ROAD, TRAIL high collision locations); AND WATERWAY SAFETY The OPS has developed a series of educational videos about traffic stops for officers to review 6. Safer roads for all Every police officer has a responsibility to internally, as an additional support towards vulnerable road users actively contribute to the reduction of deaths creating safer roads for everyone in the city. (cyclists, motorcyclists and and injuries on our roads, trails and water- These videos are a supplemental mandatory pedestrians); ways. Frontline officers are expected to be training series that helps to ensure that all relentless in their response to high-risk driving officers out on the road have the same level 7. Trail and waterway users behaviours. Due to their directed contact with of expertise when dealing with traffic issues. (marine/ATV/snowmobiles— motorists, officers are in a strong position to safety, enforcement and influence those behaviours, educate motorists, Officers from Traffic Services attend the education); and, and to promote safer roadways. Professional Development Centre (PDC) on a regular basis to assist with lectures and training 8. Traffic complaint analysis It is hoped through education and interaction of both new officers and direct entries. The (reported complaints from with police, the current societal norm that lectures are based on the e-ticketing system the public). accepts death and injury on our highways used by the OPS and best-practices for making as the inevitable cost for the use of motor notes for when attending provincial courts. ­vehicles, will become obsolete.

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When officers have been engaged in any are most likely to engage in, or confront, type of proactive traffic blitz within the city, it traffic-safety issues. The campaign can rotate is extremely important to get that message key messages across multiple topics in an out into the public domain via all available efficient manner. At the crux of all traffic-safety avenues. Traffic Services works collaboratively issues is addressing driver attitudes and with the OPS Corporate Communications and behaviours. Through many research exercises, Media Relations sections to ensure that strong the road user mindset repeats itself: drivers education and enforcement information gets blame others for misconduct; they tend to to the community through various communi- tune out traffic safety messages because they cation channels, including social media. This do not think the messages are relevant to them; consists of the type of enforcement that is they have false notions around personal safety; taking place, the geographical location, and and some believe they are near invincible. the result of the enforcement blitz by way of releasing statistics at the conclusion. The strategy behind this plan is putting the onus on all road users to be accountable and These types of blitzes will provide high-visibility de-normalizing behaviours that are currently enforcement and provide an opportunity to deemed acceptable in society. Examples educate drivers on traffic safety within the include speeding at 10 km/h over the speed community. limit, which is considered “safe” by many, or alternately the use of a cellphone while driving. The topic of driver attitude is a common thread OUTREACH that runs through every traffic-safety issue. Given the magnitude of the problem, these issues Traffic safety is a complex social marketing should receive exclusive campaign focus. challenge, with multiple behaviours and con- tributing factors that come into play. Traffic Social media and marketing involves the safety is also perceived as a “tired” topic, delivery of messages through mass media which means we must introduce new ways to and other means for the purpose of impacting communicate familiar messages in the most public awareness, attitudes and behaviours. It impactful way. At the same time, each element is an integral part of our messaging and critical is designed to be flexible enough to support to the achievement of campaign outcomes. legislation, enforcement, education programs Through social media marketing, traffic messa- and emerging challenges as they arise. ges can consistently reach large numbers of the Ottawa public and effectively reduce the Multi-topic tactics have been identified to allow number of deaths and injuries in the city. us to speak to the same target on multiple issues. For example, this would involve While proactive enforcement appears to be ­tackling diverse topics at a relatively low the most effective way to curb speeding and cost in a radio campaign, which airs during use of cellphones while driving to a significant ­morning/afternoon rush hour when drivers group of drivers, social media marketing

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represents the best hope for a cultural change ing fines and demerit points relayed for each that would see these dangerous driving offence. It can also be used for people to ask behaviours become socially unacceptable questions or clarify points of law with regards and as a result, relatively rare. to many issues around traffic. As per policy, members of the public cannot make traffic The OPS social media channels will help to complaints or police reports via social media promote traffic safety by posting messages or email, but the addition of reporting a traffic on results of proactive blitz and changes in incident online through the ottawapolice.ca legislation. Specific topics can be addressed website has been recently introduced to provide using these communication tools by highlight- residents with options for reaching the OPS.

Raising Public Awareness and Commitment to Road Safety

• Corporate Communications and Media ­Relations news releases throughout the year;

• Community liaison meetings (monthly traffic meetings);

• Presentations at public events (Leave the Phone Alone campaign, community events);

• School Resource Officers & ­Community Police Officers/ partnerships; and

• Use of social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram) .

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TRAFFIC PLAN OTTAWA POLICE SERVICE

TRAFFIC PLAN PREVIEW

The following components collectively make 6. Operation ERASE (Eliminate Racing up the overall framework of the Traffic Safety Activity on Streets Everywhere); Plan. Each of the components represents a 7. Operation Interlude school zone blitz; return to basic, well-proven measures that, if 8. Reduce Impaired Driving applied on a consistent city-wide basis, will ­Everywhere (RIDE) programs; dramatically impact the number of serious injury collisions and fatalities on our roads. 9. Leave The Phone Alone (LTPA) blitzes; and, All aspects of the OPS Traffic Plan will be sup- 10. Commercial vehicle inspection in ported by a number of initiatives throughout the cooperation with the MTO, Ontario year. These will include but are not limited to: Provincial Police (OPP), and the Ministry of Environment (MoE). 1. Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) monthly themes; The OPS, in conjunction with Safer Roads 2. OACP Drive Safe campaign; Ottawa, uses the traffic safety priorities as 3. Canadian Association of Chiefs of ­targets for enforcement. Those priorities Police (CACP), Operation Impact; include: Impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, seatbelt compliance, 4. Canada Road Safety Week; vulnerable road users and technological 5. Ontario Provincial Police opportunities. (OPP) collaboration;

DRIVER CONDITION – 2015

Inattentive 37% Other < 1%

Medical or physical Unknown 14% disability < 1%

Fatigue < 1%

Consumed Alcohol Normal 46% or Drugs 2%

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IMPAIRED DRIVING In 2015, the OPS stopped more than 13,000 (Includes Impaired by Drugs) vehicles during its annual RIDE campaigns, resulting in about 65 charges, ranging from Impaired driving remains one of the top road- flight from police to discovery of driving while safety concerns for the OPS. The organization suspended. In 2015 OPS charged over 800 implements the RIDE program to combat drivers for driving whilst suspended. impaired driving throughout the year. Under the Vehicle Impoundment Program, Drug-impaired driving through illicit or pre- 53 drivers had their vehicles impounded in 2015 scription drugs is an emerging concern for the for violating driving suspensions imposed as a service. The OPS has been actively training result of criminal code convictions for driving its frontline officers with both Standard Field impaired, driving disqualified, or failing to remain Sobriety Tester (SFST) and Drug Recognition at the scene of a collision. These vehicle Examiners (DRE). Training of frontline officers impoundments range between a minimum in SFST began in 2011. In 2012, all new recruits of 45 days and a maximum of 180 days.4 were educated as part of basic training. To date, there are 66 qualified Breath Techs, Of the 2,749 traffic-related calls for service 807 trained Alcotest and 140 fully qualified received in 2015 from the public requiring SFST officers within the OPS. DRE training for a mobile police response, 623 incidents officers began in 2009 and currently there are resulted in drivers under the influence of 17 qualified officers within the OPS. alcohol or drugs being removed from our roadways.5 In 2015, the OPS laid charges in 623 impaired driving incidents involving both alcohol and The OPS has measures in place to ensure drugs.1 An additional 210 drivers received licence consistent reporting of traffic-related inci- suspensions of three, seven and 30 days for dents. This includes: examining the reduced operating their vehicle in the warning range number of impaired driving collisions year of 0.05 to 0.08 blood-alcohol content (BAC).2 over year; the number of RIDE initiatives con- ducted and statistical results; the number of Drivers who had been drinking or had their roadside breath tests administered; the num- ability impaired by either alcohol or drugs ber of arrests and convictions; recidivism were involved in 312 collisions in 2015, of rate; disqualified driver arrests; and public which 103 involved injuries and one fatality.3 education opportunities and feedback.

1 Ottawa Police Service, VDM GO Offences 4 Ministry of Transportation Ontario, Inquiry Services 2 Ministry of Transportation Ontario, Inquiry Services 5 Ottawa Police Service, Patrol Services – Calls For Service 3 City of Ottawa, Ottawa Police Public Roadway Collisions (ST) Cube, Citizen Initiated Mobile Response

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DISTRACTED DRIVING Some facts: • 43% of drivers in Grade 12 admit to texting The law prohibiting the use of a mobile behind the wheel. communication device while driving came • 37% of teenagers report being a passenger into effect within Ontario in 2009. Provincial in a vehicle with a parent who was talking statistics indicate that distracted driving is now on a cell phone while driving. one of the top causes for motor vehicle col- lisions. In 2015, Ottawa Police charged 2,615 • 23% of students reported being a passenger drivers with distracted driving and issued an in a vehicle when a parent was texting additional 1,430 warnings to offending drivers. while driving. The number of distracted driving offences has The OPS has measures in place to ensure been steadily increasing since 2011, with 2015 consistent reporting of traffic-­related representing a five-year high6. incidents. This includes: the number of distracted driving-related collisions; the Almost 38% of all collisions are a result of dis- number of distracted driver initiatives (OPS tracted driving. In a five-year period (2011–2015) blitzes); the number of Provincial Offence 5,761 injuries and 18 deaths have resulted from Notices (PON) issued; educational oppor- distracted driving. These figures are alarming tunities and feedback; and public surveys. and the aim is to reverse the trend by targeted proactive enforcement initiatives.

The Leave the Phone Alone (LTPA) campaign is a three-pronged approach to curb distracted driving through education, enforcement and partnerships. Drivers are educated through media, social media, community events (including kiosks in shopping malls), on billboards, and with videos. External partners include Bell Media, Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), Safer Roads Ottawa and CTV Ottawa. All school boards, colleges and universities have partnered with the OPS in an attempt to educate younger drivers.

6 Ottawa Police Service, VDM Ticket

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AGGRESSIVE DRIVING APPARENT COUNT OF (Speeding, Stunt and Careless) DRIVER ACTION COLLISION AGGRESSIVE DRIVING COLLISIONS – 2015

The OPS is committed to combating aggres- 02 - Following too close 3,150 sive driving through proactive enforcement, monthly STEP themes, specific initiatives like 08 - Failed to yield 2,315 Non-Reportable (6) < 1% Operation ERASE, and suitable laser-intercept right-of-way Property Damage locations. Only (4,056) 85% 10 - Lost control 1,784 Fatal Injury (3) < 1% In 2015, there were almost 4,900 motor vehicle collisions (32%) linked to aggressive driving 99 - Other 1,626 behaviour. This includes 906 collisions that Non-Fatal Injury (714) 15% resulted in personal injury and four (4) fatalities. 12 - Improper lane 1,311 change Speed offences accounted for 85% of all aggressive driving violations in 20157, with 00 - Unknown 1,259 six charges of stunt driving and four charges for racing. The stunt driving fine is given to 04 - Speed too fast 1,028 drivers who exceed the speed limit by more for condition than 50 km/h. 01 - Driving improperly 988 The OPS has measures in place to ensure consistent reporting of traffic-­related 06 - Improper turn 708 incidents. This includes: the number of aggressive driving-related collisions; the 07 - Disobeyed AGGRESSIVE DRIVING OFFENCES – 2015 652 number of aggressive/stunt driving/careless traffic control PONs issued; and the number of enforce- ment initiatives carried out during the year. 09 - Improper passing 189 Follow Too Close (579) 3% 03 - Exceeding 59 Speed (15,393) 85% speed limit Unsafe Lane Change (754) 4%

11 - Wrong way on Passing on Right (46) 0% 12 one-way road Yield (730) 4%

05 - Speed too slow 8 Careless Driving (537) 3%

GRAND TOTAL 15,089 Race (63) 1%

7 Ottawa Police Service, VDM Ticket & Charges Laid Report

14 APPARENT COUNT OF DRIVER ACTION COLLISION AGGRESSIVE DRIVING COLLISIONS – 2015

02 - Following too close 3,150

08 - Failed to yield 2,315 Non-Reportable (6) < 1% right-of-way Property Damage Only (4,056) 85% 10 - Lost control 1,784 Fatal Injury (3) < 1%

99 - Other 1,626 Non-Fatal Injury (714) 15% 12 - Improper lane 1,311 change

00 - Unknown 1,259

04 - Speed too fast 1,028 for condition

01 - Driving improperly 988

06 - Improper turn 708

07 - Disobeyed AGGRESSIVE DRIVING OFFENCES – 2015 652 traffic control

09 - Improper passing 189 Follow Too Close (579) 3% 03 - Exceeding 59 Speed (15,393) 85% speed limit Unsafe Lane Change (754) 4%

11 - Wrong way on Passing on Right (46) 0% 12 one-way road Yield (730) 4%

05 - Speed too slow 8 Careless Driving (537) 3%

GRAND TOTAL 15,089 Race (63) 1%

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INJURED DRIVERS & PASSENGERS NOT / IMPROPERLY USING SEATBELTS – 2015

Major (2) 7%

Minor (17) 61% Fatal (1) 4%

Minimal (8) 28%

SEATBELT COMPLIANCE Seat belts save lives, yet in 2015, just under (Fail to Use or Improper 1,600 vehicle occupants received offence Child Restraint) notices for failing to wear, or improper use of, seat belts and assemblies.8 Using a seatbelt is the single most effective way In 2015, of the 28 people who were injured in to reduce the chance of injury or death in a a collision that were not wearing or improperly motor vehicle collision. For every one percent wearing seatbelts, two (2) received major injuries (1%) increase in seatbelt usage, five lives in and one (1) died as a result of their injuries.9 Canada are saved (Transport Canada, 2009- 2010). Since seatbelts were made mandatory in Ontario in 1976, the number of people killed The OPS has measures in place to ensure or injured in collisions has dropped steadily. consistent reporting of traffic-related inci- dents. This includes: the number of collisions The OPS conducts targeted enforcement involving drivers not wearing seatbelts; the throughout the year with STEP themes for which number of collisions involving passengers seatbelt use is incorporated. The OPS also not properly restrained; the number of participates in a number of safety programs PONs issued; the number of child car seat which include Canada Road Safety Week and clinics held throughout the year; and the Operation Impact — two national initiatives, as number of enforcement initiatives engaged. well as child car seat clinic programs run and organized by the Ottawa Safety Council (OSC). In 2016, the OPS partnered with the OSC and Safer Roads Ottawa to create an instructional video on how to properly inspect and install a car seat. These initiatives are often staffed by fully trained volunteers from the community. 8 Ottawa Police Service, VDM Ticket & Charges Laid Report 9 City of Ottawa, Ottawa Police Public Roadway Collisions 16 TRAFFIC PLAN OTTAWA POLICE SERVICE

VULNERABLE ROAD USERS These projects are predominantly carried out INJURED DRIVERS & PASSENGERS NOT / IMPROPERLY USING SEATBELTS – 2015 (Cyclists, Motorcyclists and at the start of each school term with the inten- Pedestrians) tion of setting a goal for drivers to be aware of the location of schools and reduced speed Major (2) 7% Vulnerable road users are individuals that are zones in the vicinity. Minor (17) 61% deemed most at risk for serious injury or death Fatal (1) 4% when they are involved in a motor vehicle collision. With the expansion of bicycle-only lanes PEDESTRIANS and contra-flow bicycle lanes (two-way bike The OPS takes part in several initiatives each lanes on a one-way street) and the introduction Minimal (8) 28% year organized by Safer Roads Ottawa with of Pedestrian Crossovers (2016), we have a regards to pedestrian safety. These include responsibility to ensure these are safe for users. Back-to-School enforcement in the proximity of selected schools and the education and The OPS, along with its community partners enforcement of pedestrian crosswalks that and stakeholders, participate in yearly edu- began in the summer of 2016. cational and enforcement initiatives. Bicycle Seat belts save lives, yet in 2015, just under safety programs run by Safer Roads Ottawa 1,600 vehicle occupants received offence Of the 328 pedestrians involved in collisions are represented by members from the OPS notices for failing to wear, or improper use in 2015, 32 received major injuries and six (6) whenever possible. Back-to-School programs of, seat belts and assemblies.8 died as a direct result of their collision.10 and National School Safety Week (Operation Interlude) focus on traffic enforcement in the In 2015, of the 28 people who were injured in In 2015 alone, 105 drivers failed to stop for direct vicinity of schools. Enforcement can be a collision that were not wearing or improperly school buses with alternating red lights flashing. carried out by both School Resource Officers wearing seatbelts, two (2) received major injuries and Community Police Officers (CPO’s) with and one (1) died as a result of their injuries.9 the assistance of Traffic Services.

The OPS has measures in place to ensure consistent reporting of traffic-related inci- PEDESTRIAN-INVOLVED ACCIDENTS – 2015 dents. This includes: the number of collisions involving drivers not wearing seatbelts; the Walking on roadway with traffic (8)2% number of collisions involving passengers Walking on roadway against traffic (1)< 1% Crossing with right-of-way (154) 47% not properly restrained; the number of On sidewalk or shoulder (17) 5% PONs issued; the number of child car seat Playing or working on highway (8) 2% clinics held throughout the year; and the Coming from behind parked number of enforcement initiatives engaged. vehicle or object (5) 2% Crossing marked crosswalk Running onto roadway (25) 8% without right-of-way (10) 3% Person getting on/off vehicle (3) 1% Crossing ped . crossover (1) < 1% Other (9) 3% Crossing – no traffic control (22)7% Unknown (21) 7% Crossing without right-of-way (44) 13%

8 Ottawa Police Service, VDM Ticket & Charges Laid Report 10 City of Ottawa, Ottawa Police Public Roadway Collisions 9 City of Ottawa, Ottawa Police Public Roadway Collisions 17 TRAFFIC PLAN OTTAWA POLICE SERVICE

CYCLISTS incidents. This includes: the number of pedestrian/cyclist-involved collisions; the The OPS assists Safer Roads Ottawa with number of charges for passing school cycling safety initiatives throughout the year. buses; and the number of charges These initiatives occur at locations such as relating to incidents involving cyclists. Laurier Avenue bike lanes, O’Connor Street bike lanes, during the annual Lights on Bikes OLDER ADULTS initiatives, as well as Sunday Bike Days. This includes NCC public roads being closed As Canada’s population continues to age, to vehicular traffic and used specifically for issues associated with elderly drivers will bicycles during certain time periods. become more prevalent. An individual’s ability to operate a vehicle changes with age. It is A total of 291 cyclists were involved in expected that by 2031, one in four people collisions in 2015, including one (1) who died living in Ottawa will be over the age of 65 of their injuries and 246 who received injuries. years. New legislation introduced by the Only 60% of cyclists involved in these collisions Ontario Ministry of Transportation requires that were wearing a helmet. Almost 50% of these as each resident reaches the age of 80, they cyclists were driving properly at the time of must retake their driver’s test. While the min- 11 the collision. istry’s legislation helps to mitigate some of the issues related to older drivers, the OPS will The OPS has measures in place to ensure continue to develop plans to deal with traffic consistent reporting of traffic-related safety and the city’s aging population.

CYCLIST-INVOLVED ACCIDENTS – 2015

Speed too fast for condition (1) < 1% Improper lane change (2) < 1% Following too close (2) < 1% Driving properly (143) 49% Lost control (8) 3% Unknown (14) 5% Improper passing (3) 1% Failed to yield Wrong way on right-of-way (28) 10% one-way road (3) 1% Improper turn (3) 1% Disobeyed traffic control (31)11% Other (53) 18%

11 City of Ottawa, Ottawa Police Public Roadway Collisions

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CYCLISTS TRAFFIC COMPLAINTS – GENERAL OCCURRENCE The OPS assists Safer Roads Ottawa with cycling safety initiatives throughout the year. 6000 These initiatives occur at locations such as Laurier Avenue bike lanes, O’Connor Street bike lanes, during the annual Lights on Bikes 5000 initiatives, as well as Sunday Bike Days. This includes NCC public roads being closed 4000 to vehicular traffic and used specifically for bicycles during certain time periods. 3000 A total of 291 cyclists were involved in collisions in 2015, including one (1) who died 2000 of their injuries and 246 who received injuries. Only 60% of cyclists involved in these collisions 1000 were wearing a helmet. Almost 50% of these cyclists were driving properly at the time of 11 0 the collision. 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

The OPS has measures in place to ensure TRAFFIC COMPLAINTS ONLY TRAFFIC COMPL STREET RACING consistent reporting of traffic-related TRAFFIC COMPL SCHOOL BUS PASS

CYCLIST-INVOLVED ACCIDENTS – 2015

Speed too fast for condition (1) < 1% TRAFFIC COMPLAINTS confirmation of identification of the driver Improper lane change (2) < 1% at the time, retribution complaints, and no Driving properly (143) 49% Following too close (2) < 1% Ottawa Police receives an average of independent witnesses. Lost control (8) 3% 5,000 traffic6000 complaints from members of the Unknown (14) 5% public each year. These vary from speeding Traffic complaints TRAFFICgenerated COMPL by calls SCHOOL from BUS PASS Improper passing (3) 1% complaints to running stop signs and aggres- members of the public, or through the OPS 5000 Failed to yield Wrong way on sive driving to using a cellphone while driving. online reporting system,TRAFFIC will allocateCOMPL resourcesSTREET RACING right-of-way (28) 10% one-way road (3) 1% These types of complaints generated by the within the service more efficiently. One way Improper turn (3) 1% public are vetted4000 for action or recorded for will be to study the TRAFFICdata collected COMPLAINTS and advise ONLY Disobeyed traffic control (31)11% Other (53) 18% informational purposes. In instances where traffic units on how to employ proactive members of3000 the public call to report bad enforcement measures based on the frequency driving scenarios charges are rarely laid on of reports at a specific geographical location, drivers due to lack of evidence required to solvability, and the ability to use evidence- 2000 secure a conviction at court. This varies from based processes.

11 City of Ottawa, Ottawa Police Public Roadway Collisions

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TECHNOLOGY & A “hit” will be recorded for a number OPPORTUNITIES of ­reasons namely:

• Stolen or lost licence plate; SCHOOL BUS CAMERA PROJECT • Misuse of a licence plate; • Suspended driver; The joint project with Safer Roads Ottawa involved the engagement of numerous school • Disqualified driver; and, bus camera companies providing their system to • Expired validation. the OPS and school bus company ML ­Bradley for testing on a single bus. By the end of the Officers acting upon “hit” information are pilot (October 2015), 75 charges were laid. required to check that the information is The camera system, using motion detection valid and often a simple offence of having software, was able to capture vehicles passing no current validation reveals far more serious a stopped school bus with its lights flashing offences such as no insurance. and stop arm extended. The device assists with road safety by Traffic Services is responsible for reviewing detecting, alerting and informing officers of the infractions captured on the bus surveil- suspended and disqualified drivers, subse- lance video to determine whether charges quently removing individuals off the roadway. are suitable. Once a determination is made, a traffic officer will locate and serve the violators by way of a Part I summons. TINT METERS

Traffic Services officers were also very Traffic Services officers have been issued Tint involved in providing feedback and technical Meters purchased by Safer Roads Ottawa to expertise during the pilot project. assist with enforcing after-market tint added to vehicle windows. This tint is seen as an officer and public safety issue, and with the use of this AUTOMATIC LICENCE PLATE meter, officers are able to determine exactly RECOGNITION (ALPR) how much percentage of tint a window has been given. Although present legislation is not Automatic Licence Plate Recognition is a precise, steps are in progress to amend the camera device affixed to a patrol vehicle that Ontario Highway Traffic Act to fall in line with is capable of rapidly checking licence plates other provinces. The change would specify of vehicles in the surrounding area. Each plate that anything below a 30 percent light trans- number is checked against a database and mission would be illegal. reveals possible offences as a “hit” to the officer monitoring the device at that time. It can be In 2015, Ottawa Police stopped 579 vehicles used in either static mode or mobile as part with improper tint or coatings on windshields. of proactive enforcement.

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INTELLIGENCE-LED TRAFFIC DESIGNATED TRAFFIC UNITS ENFORCEMENT

The OPS is moving in the direction of Intelligence-Led Traffic Enforcement (ILTE), TRAFFIC SERVICES which is based on collision statistics. The Traffic Services officers are responsible for the top 10 high-collision intersections have been proactive general enforcement of all aspects identified throughout the city with the aim of of the Highway Traffic Act during the course of all officers concentrating on proactive enforce- their duties. This includes dealing with unsafe ment at these locations in a determined effort vehicles, administrative offences or equipment to reduce collisions and injuries. violations, as well as ensuring that motorists adhere to the rules of the road. By identifying areas through temporal and spatial analysis that have high incidences of Commercial Motor Vehicle Examiners (CMVE) collisions, the Traffic Plan will employ highly assist all units within the OPS with any type visible targeted enforcement to affect these of inquiry regarding commercial vehicles. areas. Efforts that include saturating identified Currently there are three fully qualified locations with enhanced police presence and CMVE officers in the unit. They also assist enforcement should serve to reduce collisions the ­Collision Investigation Unit (CIU) with any and impact overall driving behaviour. This collision involving a commercial vehicle that model affords communities the dual benefit may require examinations. They work closely of reducing traffic collisions and subsequently with Ministry of Transportation personnel with reducing social harm. joint projects throughout the year.

Speed boards are deployed throughout There are currently two fully qualified Master Ottawa from May until November by the City Instructors within Traffic Services who are of Ottawa’s Traffic Services branch. Deployment responsible for training all Radar/LIDAR locations are based on traffic complaints Instructors in the OPS. They also ensure the and collision statistics generated by the City. required maintenance and replacement of all The valuable information gained from these Radar and LIDAR equipment for the OPS is deployments are provided to the OPS, which conducted as prescribed by the regulations. allows proactive traffic enforcement to be carried out in “confirmed” problematic areas Head of State Police Escorts are carried out at rather than perceived issues. the request of the Global Affairs Canada. Each escort is required for security and/or protocol The OPS has performance measures reasons, that is set out on a memorandum of in place to ensure consistent reporting understanding between both parties on a cost- of traffic-­related incidents. This recovery basis. Other police escorts are carried includes identifying the amount of out only as directed by the Chief of Police. time officers engage with motorists There is no provision to hire police escorts at identified high-collision locations. for any other events through paid duties.

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COLLISION INVESTIGATION UNIT (CIU) Roads Ottawa, and the Regional Supervising Coroner, established the Fatal Collision Review Members of the CIU are highly trained, dedicated Committee (FCRC), in order to facilitate the officers who specialize in the field of collision sharing of information following fatal collisions reconstruction. This includes reconstruction of within the municipality. the scene through the practical application of accepted collision reconstruction principles. Officers in the unit are equipped with the MARINE, DIVE AND TRAIL UNIT latest in technology including the “Total Station.” This instrument is used to survey the The OPS Marine Dive and Trail Unit (MDTU) is scene of a collision from which the data is a full-time unit responsible for providing police later downloaded into a computer program enforcement and education on waterways to produce a scale diagram. Officers from and off-road trails within the City of Ottawa. this unit also assist the Forensic Identification The unit responds to calls for service and Unit with surveying major crime scenes and conducts follow-up investigations on a variety preparing scale diagrams. Officers in this sec- of water/boating, ATV and snowmobile-related tion are responsible for the preparation and complaints. It also acts as a resource to other case management of all files. The unit was sections involved in such investigations. The recently moved to the Criminal Investigations unit strives to achieve high visibility on the Directorate to better align it with other units city’s waterways and trails by being proactive that perform similar functions, or interact with in identifying problem areas and conducting the unit as a regular part of case resolution. enforcement where needed. The unit is also responsible for Underwater Search The CIU attends and investigates motor-vehicle and Recovery as the dive component. collisions resulting in the death of one or more of the involved persons, as well as motor- Its primary duty while on marine patrol is to vehicle collisions with life-threatening injuries. conduct vessel checks to ensure compliance In practice, the CIU will attend the scene of with statutes and regulations in regards to a serious major collision when requested by equipment, verify sea worthiness, assess com- a supervisor and appropriately approved as petency of the operator(s), and to be proactive per policy. CIU members are generally tasked by making visits to marinas, Rideau Canal with investigating hit-and-run and other motor- lock stations and beach patrols. The MDTU vehicle collisions, as assigned, but will also provides enforcement on the snowmobile and act as a resource to the members of the OPS ATV trail systems in the City of Ottawa as well in providing technical expertise and assist- as assisting other units such as the Emergency ance in the matter of motor vehicle collision Response Unit in support where ATVs and investigation. Finally, the CIU can assist other snowmobiles are logistically required. police services with the same services, upon approval by the OPS Executive. The unit conducts presentations to the public in regards to water and off-road safety, vessel, In late 2016, the Ottawa Police, along with snowmobile and ATV operations, as well as representatives from the City of Ottawa, Safer equipment usage.

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SPECIAL EVENTS AND PAID DUTIES The OPS currently has 66 Qualified Technicians (breath), 17 Drug Recognition Experts (DRE), The OPS Event Planning and Coordination and 140 officers trained in Standardized Field section, which includes Paid Duties and Sobriety Testing (SFST). This unit facilitates Special Events planning, is within the Frontline all training and oversees continued profi- Directorate. These two units are staffed by ciency training. an integrated team of sworn and civilian members. They work collaboratively with Over the past five years, the OPS has community stakeholders, city partners, and ­prosecuted an average of 632 impaired commercial organizations to proactively identify drivers annually. The sergeant reviews each events that may impact traffic management and occurrence and deals with quality assurance public safety. This includes, but is not limited and disclosure issues as required. to: fairs, festivals, parades, demonstrations, sporting events and infrastructure projects. There is extensive support to numerous The members of this section work with stake- partnerships with other police agencies and holders in developing planned responses the community. These partnerships include that will mitigate the impact to public safety representation on several Ontario Association and the orderly movement of traffic. These of Chiefs of Police (OACP), Breath / DRE Group plans range in complexity from simple tasking and Tow Group committees, as well sitting on sheets to integrated, detailed operational the Board of the local Mothers Against Drunk plans impacting hundreds of members. Driving (MADD) chapter.

Staffing at these planned events is primarily The sergeant is responsible for the main- facilitated through the use of paid duty officers tenance, mandated periodic inspection, and on a cost-recovery basis to remove impacts keeping accurate associated records, of all upon OPS resources. In 2015, there were breath-testing equipment. These records are more than 7,000 paid duty contracts that vital for court purposes. amounted to nearly 90,000 hours of service provided by off-duty officers and civilians. The IVS is responsible for administering all the vehicles that are taken into police custody. Quality-assurance review is carried out on IMPAIRED AND ALCOHOL each of the estimated 15,000 cases a year COUNTERMEASURES where vehicles are towed by police. Each of the registered owners of recovered stolen The Impaired Driving Countermeasures (IDC) vehicles are notified in a timely fashion, along and Impounded Vehicles Section (IVS) is with information about the proper operation of staffed by a sergeant and a constable. the provincial Vehicle Impoundment Program. They are responsible for the integrity of the impaired-driving enforcement program This unit also oversees and manages the OPS and supervise the operation of the vehicle towing contracts and numerous general aspects impound unit. of the towing industry as it relates to police operations.

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The OPS Traffic Plan committee decided on a universal slogan to be employed and shared, as part of the plan’s core campaign messaging, with residents of Ottawa. “Get There With Care.”

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CONCLUSION

The ability to analyze successes and adapt to Demonstrated leadership, tenacity, passion, ongoing concerns with traffic issues provides and professionalism with regards to traffic an opportunity for the OPS to rise above the enforcement across the organization will culture of status quo. encourage every individual to proactively champion the principles of this Traffic Plan. It is only through continuous evaluation and This will produce an enhanced service level to consultation that the optimal results of this the public and reduce senseless tragedies on Traffic Plan will be realized. The consultation, our roads, trails and waterways. cooperation, and continued relationship with road safety agencies and the public are key to The OPS is moving towards evidence-based achieving our common goal of road, trail and decision making for case resolution. This waterway safety. includes finding solutions to the city’s traffic problems. Advances in technology and the The OPS will demonstrate leadership introduction of a new city-wide Ottawa Police in resolving one of the top concerns of Strategic Operations Centre (OPSOC), will ­Ottawa-area residents by incorporating help to provide a more efficient and reliable the core principles of this Traffic Plan. means of combating chronic traffic safety issues. Data collected from reports generated It will be revised in tandem with the OPS from residents filing complaints with a new Business Plan, but can be amended to allow online reporting system will help the OPS changes to be made where necessary. in determining where those problem zones are in the city to help with proactive policing Annually, statistical information to support the measures to permanently resolve issues. plan will be presented to the Ottawa Police Service Board for review. This performance As a proud foundational partner of the Safer matrix will enhance efforts for transparency Roads Ottawa program, the OPS has adopted and cooperation both with the board and the the same philosophy when it comes to road community as a whole to encourage everyone safety “Towards Zero – one traffic fatality or to be accountable for making Ottawa’s roads serious injury is one too many.” safer. While our frontline officers are indis- pensable for creating safer roads for all users Through a variety of enforcement initiatives in the city through their expertise, education and by working closely with all law enforcement and interaction with residents; the OPS is and community partners, the OPS continues always looking for new ways to leverage to aim to ensure that the roads in the City of technology to enhance the quality of life for Ottawa are the safest in all of Canada. everyone living in Ottawa.

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