Nearly 14,000 falls occurred on sidewalks, parking lots and other public spaces in Montreal between 2016 and 2020, more than half of which resulted in hospitalization, according to a first-ever public health study.
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These accidents also affect a large majority of people aged 50 and over, according to the Montreal Public Health Department, which conducted this study based on Urgences-santé interventions.
Number of outdoor falls by age and gender
On the island of Montreal from 2016 to 2020
“This is just the tip of the iceberg,” breathes Sandrine Cabana-Degani, director general of Piétons Québec, about the data that comes only from Montreal and is linked to an emergency ambulance call. But it shows how important it is to better look after our pedestrian network.”
“[Les chutes] are one of the main causes of traffic accidents, but are not counted,” she regrets, which is why this first study is important.
Montreal Regional Health Department
With this data, Public Health shows that older people are at higher risk of serious falls. These accidents also occur more frequently in densely populated areas and especially during frost or thaw.
Number of outdoor falls per month of the year
On the island of Montreal from 2016 to 2020
While the results are not surprising for Piétons Quebec, Ms. Cabana-Degani hopes they can raise awareness in cities and the government.
In 63% of falls, the person had to be hospitalized because of their injuries.
Types of external interventions after a fall after a call to Urgences-santé
On the island of Montreal from 2016 to 2020
“It is often assumed that we clear the streets of snow, but when it comes to sidewalks, it depends on whether there is enough budget left and whether it is not too expensive.” But pedestrians have a right to mobility, even in winter.” , argues Ms. Cabana-Degani.
“It is a significant burden,” emphasizes François Tessier, one of the study’s co-authors, about falls. But above all, we don’t want people to stop walking.”
Distribution of external falls by district
On the island of Montreal from 2016 to 2020
Therefore, it is important to give priority to pedestrians and ensure the maintenance of public spaces, he adds.
The city plays a role in distributing abrasives on sidewalks, but also at businesses, since most falls happen in parking lots.
Number of external falls by location
On the island of Montreal from 2016 to 2020
For his part, Montreal city spokesman Philippe Sabourin said he welcomed the public health initiative. He points out that the city spends $187 million each winter to clear about 7 feet of snow. Montreal spreads 200,000 tonnes of salt and gravel based on the principle of “the right amount at the right time”.
Reducing falls on the city’s 6,000 km of sidewalks is part of the city’s plans, Mr. Sabourin continued.
On average, there have been around 25 outdoor falls lawsuits in Montreal over the past five years, with the city’s liability established.
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