When it’s time for drivers in Ontario to head out on the highway for summer holidays, or rev up that rental car, it would be wise to remember that a majority of the province’s own drivers admit to engaging in risky and unsafe driving behaviours, according to a recent study on dangerous driving conducted by CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO).
The survey revealed that more than half of Ontario motorists (55%) admitted to doing so in the past year, with the number increasing to 61% amongst young drivers aged 18 to 34.
“Dangerous driving behaviours, such as speeding, distracted driving, and aggressive driving, continue to pose significant risks on our roads,” says Michael Stewart, community relations consultant for CAA SCO. “These actions not only endanger the lives of the drivers themselves but also put all road users at risk.”
Of those surveyed, the top five dangerous driving behaviours that motorists engaged in are:
- Speeding (41%)
- Distracted driving (20%)
- Unsafe lane changes (9%)
- Aggressive driving (8%)
- Running red lights (7%)
In contrast, those surveyed say they frequently witnessed others driving dangerously far more often.
- Speeding (84%)
- Unsafe lane changes (76%)
- Aggressive driving (76%)
- Distracted driving (73%)
- Running red lights (56%)
The survey found that speeding continues to be the leading concern for Ontario motorists, especially on roads with higher speed limits. According to the study, 86% of motorists feel safe on residential streets, compared to only 68% on posted 110-kph highways.
“Ontarians frequently witness dangerous driving behaviours, especially on highways,” says Stewart, “the important thing to remember is that the risk of collision can increase when travelling at higher speeds.”
Automated speed enforcement (ASE)
The study found that more than three-quarters of Ontario drivers (78%) believe that automated speed enforcement (ASE) can help deter drivers from speeding, as 70% of Ontario drivers admit that they will slow down in the presence of an ASE camera. However, four in 10 said they will actively avoid roads with ASE.
Ontario drivers also favour stricter fines and penalties to combat the increasing amount of dangerous driving across the province. This year alone, 35% of Ontarians indicated that penalties and fines for speeding and stunt driving have influenced their driving behaviour – up 7% from last year.
“It is no surprise that Ontario motorists are in favour of stricter penalties as speeding and dangerous driving continue to be an issue,” says Stewart, “Our hope is that through education and awareness of the repercussions, we can begin to see a steady decrease in dangerous driving across all roads.”