Nearly 70% of Canadians admit to speeding in residential areas at least once in the past year, while 50% report regularly exceeding highway speed limits, according to a new survey conducted by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). One in five drivers admit to routinely driving well above posted speed limits.
“Higher speeds reduce drivers’ reaction times and increase the risk to themselves and everyone else,” said Kristine D’Arbelles, senior director of public affairs for CAA National. “Speeding increases your stopping distance, making a collision more likely and severe, but it saves you only a small amount of time.”
Research from the Traffic Injury Research Foundation shows that driving just 10 km/h over the limit increases the likelihood of a collision by 60% while saving drivers only about four minutes on average.
CAA’s findings revealed that speeding isn’t confined to younger drivers. While Canadians over 50 reported slightly lower rates of speeding, the behavior is prevalent across all age groups. Additionally, only 35% of Canadians believe they are likely to be caught for speeding, according to the survey.
Transport Canada’s National Collision Database indicates that speeding is a factor in about 25% of fatal crashes in Canada.
The survey also highlighted other concerning driving habits. Forty percent of respondents admitted to running a red light at least once, while 68% reported driving when they were too tired. Furthermore, more than half (54%) acknowledged using their phones while driving in the past year.
In light of these findings, CAA has issued reminders to promote safer driving. As winter approaches, the organization stresses the importance of adjusting speed for weather conditions and slowing down in residential zones.
CAA also encourages drivers to maintain a safe distance between vehicles to allow for hazards and to be extra cautious around crosswalks, particularly for pedestrians with disabilities or children. The association advises drivers to exercise patience, recognizing that vulnerable pedestrians may need more time to cross roads.
The findings are based on a September 2024 survey of 2,880 Canadians. With a margin of error of ±1.9 %, the data sheds light on persistent road safety challenges across the country.
CAA, a federation of eight clubs, serves over seven million members across Canada with services ranging from roadside assistance to insurance and travel support.
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