In Sudbury, a coroner’s inquest has produced a list of recommendations aimed at changing the way unfit drivers can be dealt with in a timelier manner.
A list of 27 recommendations was issued by the jury and includes an immediate driver's licence suspension for 24 hours if police or medical personnel are concerned about a person's health.
The inquest looked into the death of a 72-year-old Elliot Lake man, who died three years ago after a collision on Highway 69 south of Sudbury.
It was determined Walter Blight had health issues at the time of the crash.
One recommendation was made for each of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, and Ontario Police College and all Ontario Police Services to update their policies and guides.
The bulk of the recommendations was for the Ministry of Transportation and includes:
· Establish a permanent working group
· Allow officers relevant information on drivers through a database that is regularly updated
· Medical condition reports submitted by prescribed health practitioners
· Request for driver’s licence review submitted by police
· MTO Handling of medical and driving concerns
· Process for reinstating a driver’s license is accessible
· Education, training and professional development programs for health practitioners, police officers, and the public
A follow-up report regarding the progress made on the recommendations in an open letter is due no later than December 31st, 2019 to the Office of the Chief Coroner.
