New study reveals lifetime odds of dying from fatal accidents in Canada

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

• Out of all the ways someone might accidentally die in Canada, unintentional injuries like falls, car crashes, or other accidents are the most common at 1 in 252. 
• Alcohol poisoning also poses a serious threat, with its impact reflecting unsafe consumption habits across the population.
• Accidental drowning occurs more often than anticipated, showing the risks tied to water activities and the importance of precautionary measures.

A recent study by MNH Injury Lawyers revealed the odds of dying from various accidents in Canada. The study calculated the lifetime odds of dying from various accidents in Canada using 2023 mortality data and the country’s average life expectancy of 81.7 years. Lifetime odds were derived by dividing the population’s life expectancy by the annual mortality rate for each accident type, expressed as “1 in X” likelihood. The analysis provides a comparative view of accidental deaths, highlighting both frequent and rare causes while offering insights into relative risks faced by Canadians.

Type of Accident	Number of Deaths in Canada 2023	Average Life expectancy of a Person in Canada in 2023	Lifetime odds of dying (1 in #)
Accidents (unintentional injuries)	20,597	81.70	252.11
Falls	7,997	81.70	97.88
Accidental poisoning and exposure to noxious substances	7,433	81.70	90.98
Alcohol poisoning	2,121	81.70	25.96
Transport accidents	2,009	81.70	24.59
Motor vehicle accidents	1,780	81.70	21.79
Accidental Drowning and Submersion	319	81.70	3.90
Complications of medical and surgical care	309	81.70	3.78
Accidental exposure to smoke, fire and flames	190	81.70	2.33
Poisoning by and exposure to chemicals and noxious substances, undetermined intent	189	81.70	2.31
Water, air and space, and other and unspecified transport accidents and their sequelae	159	81.70	1.95
Discharge of firearms, undetermined intent	6	81.70	0.07

Accidents (unintentional injuries) rank first, with lifetime odds of 1 in 252.11. These incidents caused 20,597 deaths in Canada in the past year, making them the leading cause of accidental death overall. From falls to transport accidents, unintentional injuries affect individuals of all ages, often cutting lives short well before the average life expectancy of 81.7 years.

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Falls rank second, with lifetime odds of 1 in 97.88. Falls caused 7,997 deaths in 2023, making them the most frequent specific cause of accidental death. Although the average life expectancy in Canada is 81.7 years, falls often claim lives earlier, especially among older adults or those with mobility challenges.

Accidental poisoning ranks third, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 90.98. This cause accounted for 7,433 deaths, often involving unintentional exposure to toxic substances or overdoses. Despite the potential for Canadians to live long lives, incidents like these cut life short.

Alcohol poisoning is fourth, with odds of 1 in 25.96. Excessive alcohol consumption resulted in 2,121 deaths last year. For some, unsafe drinking habits become life-threatening, interrupting what could otherwise be a longer, healthier lifespan. Public health initiatives targeting alcohol misuse could reduce this toll.

Transport accidents rank fifth, with lifetime odds of 1 in 24.59. These incidents caused 2,009 deaths in 2023, primarily from road crashes. Although modern safety features and improved infrastructure have extended life expectancy, risky driving behaviors like speeding or impaired driving can lead to premature deaths.

Motor vehicle accidents rank sixth, with a 1 in 21.79 chance of death. Among the 1,780 deaths recorded, many involved preventable factors like distracted or impaired driving. Lives that could have stretched into old age are often cut short by these avoidable incidents, making road safety a critical concern.

Accidental drowning ranks seventh, with odds of 1 in 3.90. Drowning claimed 319 lives in 2023, with children particularly vulnerable. Water safety education and access to swimming lessons could prevent these tragedies, allowing more people to enjoy their full life potential.

Complications from medical or surgical care rank eighth, with odds of 1 in 3.78. These incidents caused 309 deaths, often occurring during procedures meant to improve health. While healthcare advancements have extended life expectancy, complications remind us of the risks inherent in medical care.

Accidental exposure to smoke, fire, and flames ranks ninth, with a 1 in 2.33 lifetime chance of death. Fires led to 190 deaths last year, many in homes. Preventable incidents like these can claim lives far earlier than expected, highlighting the importance of fire safety measures.

Poisoning by chemicals or noxious substances, with undetermined intent ranks tenth, with the odds of death at 1 in 2.31. This category accounted for 189 deaths, often from improperly handled materials. Addressing safety practices in homes and workplaces could reduce these avoidable early deaths.

A spokesperson from MNH Injury Lawyers commented on the study: “Accidents often happen when we least expect them, but many are preventable with the right precautions. Whether it’s using proper safety equipment, avoiding risky behaviors like impaired driving, or ensuring homes are free from hazards, small steps can make a big difference. It’s a shared responsibility—individuals, communities, and policymakers all have a role in creating safer environments for everyone.”

Source: MHN Injury Lawyers