As summer 2023 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting not only on the warm, sunny days and time spent with family and friends but also on some immense challenges Canadians have endured with floods, drought and wildfires in recent months. It has been inspiring to see how communities come together, and the bravery demonstrated by first responders and regular people to protect each other, livestock, pets and property.
As we look ahead to September, I urge Canadians to remember there will be changes in traffic patterns as people return to work and school, and the weather remains warm to encourage cycling, scootering, and plain old walking. This means traffic volumes will increase, the return of school buses, and lots of 
active transportation users in addition to the regular sight of heavy trucks. Plus, many jurisdictions have reduced speed limits in school zones and high-traffic areas, and we are seeing more roundabouts to keep traffic flowing and create a safe environment for all road users. Let’s do our part and take care of each other by slowing down, sharing the road and giving right of way.
Most importantly, stay focused out there and put down phones and other distractions, no matter which mode of transportation you choose. As chair of the US National Distracted Driving Coalition, I’m pleased to share that a new fact sheet is scheduled for release in September with information for employers on the range of programs available to support sharing the road safely with large commercial vehicles. Plus, TIRF’s 2022 infographic, Vehicle Size Matters – Sharing the Road with Large Trucks, is featured in a related #MySafeRoadHome blog which is a shorter, storytelling version of the new NDDC fact sheet.
It seems almost too simple, but sharing the road is one of the main ways we can help each other get home safely every day. Let’s all do our part to keep communities safe.
Warmest regards,
Robyn Robertson
TIRF President & CEO
