Interim Detachment Commander Riz Slueman Informs Morinville Rotary

Interim Staff Sargent Riz Suleman is a 19 yr. old veteran. Grew up in Edmonton, graduated U of A with specialization in Psychology. After numerous postings throughout AB he did one year secondment to the Provincial Ministry of Transportation where he was the Traffic Enforcement Coordinator. His presentation reflected information gathered while in this position.

We learned there were 3875 deaths on our highways from 1992-2002. More than from any criminal activity i.e. murders. In 2004 Government commissioned a review on traffic safety. Collisions, deaths and major injury peaked in 05-06. In 2007 the first traffic safety Plan began. The peak in collisions related directly to the AB population increase. The decrease was parallel the implementation of the Safety Plan and twinning of highways and placing of barriers between the highways, dramatically reducing collisions.

86.5% of collisions are driver error, the highest reason for accidents. The highest deaths are caused by drinking and driving.

Police are finding Traffic Safety and Criminal activity often cross paths. Many cars stopped for traffic violations, end with criminal charges for involvement of drugs, warrants etc...

More court time is spent by police over traffic violations than any other illegal activity. But, Riz said even if they lose cases at trail, the experience testifying is good for both the police and the accused in that they gain valuable experience in a court setting. They experience what is required to give good evidence at a trial, which becomes more valuable if ever testifying in more serious crimes.

Using Data Driven approach Police try to patrol and be visible, frequent hot spots, and ticket offenders to reduce collisions, injuries and deaths. This was a very informative presentation.