Unsafe driving still on the rise, CAA poll finds
A majority of Canadians (56 %) say they feel dangerous driving has increased recently, with speeding, aggressive behaviour, and cell phone use again topping the list of problems observed, according to the latest poll(1) by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).
Similar results were already a cause for concern last July, when Canadian motorists reported an increase in unsafe behaviour on the road in the midst of the pandemic. Unfortunately, results from this latest survey point in the same direction, with drivers again reporting upticks in speeding (35%), aggressive driving (32%) and phone use behind the wheel (30 %).
“There is a false sense of security for drivers on the road these days. With fewer cars around compared to pre-COVID, motorists may feel they can get away with riskier driving,” says Ian Jack, vice-president of public affairs, CAA National. “But the risk is always there, whether that’s another vehicle or other road users.”
Some valuable safety tips
In its winter 2020 editorial, CAA-Quebec noted that motorists who drive less may see some of their skills and reflexes slide. Being cautious is always important, but the poll results and the arrival of winter conditions are a good reminder that road safety is everybody’s business, all year round.
Although non-essential travel is not recommended right now, here are some handy tips if you have to take to the road in the days ahead:
1. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going. When drivers rush, they are more likely to engage in risky driving behaviour where they end up hurting themselves or someone else on the road.
2. Set your GPS and playlist before driving. Reduce distractions by having everything set before you begin your trip. If you are driving with someone else, designate them to watch your phone so you can keep your mind and eyes on the road.
3. Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists, especially with fewer people driving. Make eye contact with pedestrians and check your blind spots for cyclists.
4. Don’t be that snowball on wheels. Clear ice and snow from all exterior windows and mirrors before you start driving.
5. Don’t be a phantom vehicle. Make sure your front and rear lights are on. Not only does it make your path clearer, it also helps other road users see you. Beware, it’s not because the dashboard is lit that the lights are on. Make sure the light switch is on automatic or activated for full lights.
Winter driving conditions are highly variable and can change fast. Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter from a mechanical standpoint and that key components like windshield wipers and tires are in good condition. Every vehicle should be equipped with an emergency kit containing everything you need to deal with unforeseen situations.
A busy year for the CAA-Quebec Foundation
Road safety highlights in 2020 included the cannabis-impaired driving and #UnplugandDrive campaigns, which drew attention to the dangers of distracted driving.
The CAA-Quebec Foundation also released its annual report Together to Save Lives, focused on its goal to improve road safety. The report is loaded with information about the Foundation’s mission and activities.
About CAA-Québec
CAA-Quebec is a not-for-profit organization that assists each of its members by providing mobility, travel, insurance, and residential benefits, products, and services. CAA was named Canada’s most trusted brand in the annual Brand Trust Index for 2020 by the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria.
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(1) The survey of 1,582 Canadians was conducted from December 9 to 16, 2020. A probability sample of the same size would have resulted in a margin of error of ±2.5%, 19 times out of 20.