A coroner's report into the deaths of three cyclists blames driver fatigue and poor road conditions for the deadly collision.
Two years ago a pickup truck plowed into a group of cyclists on Highway 112 in Rougemont.
Lyne Duhamel, Sandra de la Garza Aquila and Christine Deschamps were killed and several others were injured.
The coroner cites several reasons for the fatal crash and has a list of recommendations.
Andre Dandavino determined very quickly that the driver was using cruise control, which diminishes the amount of attention needed to keep a car on the road.
That was combined with fatigue because the driver had recently switched to working a night shift and was having trouble sleeping.
Despite driving into the group of cyclists without ever touching the brakes, the coroner concluded the driver was not the only one at fault.
Dandavino's report also cites the cyclists for riding side by side on a highway, when the law clearly states (Art. 486 of Highway code) that cyclists must always ride in single file on public roadways.
The poor condition of the road where the crash happened also forced cyclists to ride further to the left than a driver may have been expecting, and there is no paved shoulder giving cyclists no other option.
Recommendations
Coroner Dandavino's report says Transport Quebec should ensure that all busy roads have paved shoulders in order for cyclists to travel safely.
The report also asks the Automobile Insurance Board (SAAQ) to launch a publicity campaign reminding cyclists to ride single file, and to tell drivers that not only does cruise control offer a false sense of security, but that they must make sure they are awake and alert enough to control a car.
The final recommendation is for Transport Canada.
The coroner wants the federal agency to instruct car manufacturers to include safety features that make sure drivers are alert and awake, and signal drivers if they are not in full control.
