CSRO + AIA Partner to address road safety through the CCIAP.

Canadian/American Spinal Research Organization announces partnership with AIA Canada to address road safety through the Canadian Collision Industry Accreditation Program

(Toronto, ON – November 20, 2018) – The Canadian/American Spinal Research Organization (CSRO) and the Automotive Industries Association (AIA) of Canada are pleased to announce a partnership to address road safety through AIA Canada’s Canadian Collision Industry Accreditation Program (CCIAP). The focus of the partnership will be to promote the message of proper car repair and to improve the safety of Canadian drivers through CCIAP.

Recognizing that motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, the CSRO, as part of their “Paving the Way to a Cure” campaign, is partnering with automotive industry stakeholders, such as AIA Canada. The campaign acknowledges the high proportion (43%) of spinal cord injuries that are caused by motor vehicle collisions, naturally making the partnership with AIA Canada a good fit.

AIA Canada’s Canadian Collision Industry Accreditation Program accredits collision repair facilities to meet a collection of industry standards, which are contributed by participating original equipment manufacturers and other stakeholders. As automobiles become more sophisticated, the techniques required to repair them become more complex.  CCIAP accreditation requires an auto body facility to successfully demonstrate compliance with accreditation standards covering core business operations, equipment and training.

“The quality of repairs and the safety of Canadians are paramount to AIA Canada and its members,” explains Jean-François Champagne, President of AIA Canada.  “The automotive aftermarket plays a critical role in repairing and maintaining the 26 million vehicles on Canadian roads. Safe cars save lives and prevent tragedies such as spinal cord injury.”

“Working together to make our roads safer will have a direct effect on prevention of spinal cord injuries, which in addition to our fundraising and awareness initiatives is something we believe very strongly at the CSRO,” states Barry Munro, Chief Development Officer of the CSRO .  “We’re looking forward to spreading the message of accredited vehicle repairs, which in turn will keep our roads safer for everyone.”

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About CSRO

The Canadian Spinal Research Organization (CSRO)/American Spinal Research Organization (ASRO) are dedicated to the funding of targeted research to maximize functional recovery and cure paralysis caused by spinal cord injury. Our passion for finding a cure inspires others, builds support and expands the network of committed people; knowing each step brings us closer to our goal. www.csro.com

CSRO Inquiries
Marsha Mowers
647-293-6724
info@marshamowers.com

About AIA Canada

The Automotive Industries Association (AIA) of Canada is the national trade association that brings together the entire automotive aftermarket supply and service chain. AIA’s mandate is to promote, educate and represent members in areas that impact the growth and prosperity of the industry. To learn more, please visit www.aiacanada.com and follow us on LinkedInTwitter, and Facebook.

AIA Canada Media Contact
AIA Canada Communications
1-800-808-2920 ext 285
communications@aiacanada.com

About CCIAP

The essential function of the Canadian Collision Industry Accreditation Program (CCIAP) is to accredit collision repair facilities against a collection of standards which are contributed by participating OEs and/or other stakeholders. CCIAP is run by and for the Canadian collision repair industry. The program is managed by AIA Canada, a national not-for-profit association which reaches the entire industry. Visit www.cciap.ca for more information.

CCIAP Inquiries
Andrew Shepherd
Senior Director, Industry Programs
andrew.shepherd@aiacanada.com