MTO to Review Winter Maintenance After Fatal Snow-Related Flyover Ramp Accident
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is currently conducting a review of its winter maintenance operations following a tragic incident on Monday morning. This accident involved a 38-year-old woman whose vehicle was propelled over a snowbank on the Highway 7 flyover ramp in Kitchener, ultimately falling onto the highway below. This event was one of two accidents reported that morning involving loss of control on the flyover ramp.
Details of the Accidents
The first incident occurred around 2 a.m., when a taxi driver lost control and drove over a snow embankment onto Highway 8. The cab driver sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The fatal accident took place approximately at 7:30 a.m., as confirmed by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
- Time of First Accident: 2 a.m.
- Time of Fatal Crash: 7:30 a.m.
- Fatality: 38-year-old woman
- Location: Highway 7 flyover ramp, Kitchener
The Role of Weather Conditions
Both incidents coincided with adverse weather conditions. The Waterloo region experienced snow squalls and winds, resulting in 10 to 15 cm of snowfall from Sunday into Monday morning. OPP Sergeant Kerry Schmidt indicated that the road conditions and snow accumulation contributed to the drivers’ loss of control.
Snow Management Issues
The MTO is responsible for clearing that section of roadway, not the Region of Waterloo or the City of Kitchener. In response to inquiries, the ministry stated it is reviewing winter maintenance operations during the events. As a result of the heavy snowfall, snow buildup reached the height of the concrete barriers along the ramp.
Schmidt noted the problem with snow accumulation along the concrete barriers. When heavy snowfall occurs, plows push excess snow onto the shoulders, sometimes creating embankments that can be dangerous. He mentioned, “With the amount of snow we accumulated over the last 24 hours, we got to the point where there was no more space to push that snow.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the accidents, considering various factors including possible mechanical failures or driver errors. Despite the lanes being plowed and salted, drivers still managed to lose control. Schmidt affirmed that the ramp was reopened after the initial crash and snow removal was completed following the second incident.
At this point, no charges are pending regarding these accidents. The MTO is monitoring the situation closely and working to enhance safety on the flyover ramp.
