It seems Canadian drivers have no problem pressing to the metal.

A new public opinion study from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) has revealed some fascinating statistics regarding fast drivers. Nearly 70 percent of Canadians admit to speeding in a residential area at least once in the past year.

According to the survey, half of those surveyed say they regularly drive too fast on the highway, and one in five drivers say they regularly exceed the speed limit by a lot.

It seems that age is not a barrier to speed, since the CAA survey reveals that speed is not reserved for young people.

While drivers over 50 reported doing so less, all age groups admitted to consistently exceeding the speed limit in their respective areas.

“Higher speeds reduce drivers’ reaction times and increase risks to themselves and everyone else,” said Kristine D’Arbelles, senior director of public affairs at CAA National. “Speed ​​increases your stopping distance, making a collision more likely and more serious, but it only buys you a little time.”

Excessive confidence on the roads?

According to the CAA public opinion poll, only 35 per cent of Canadians think they will be stopped for speeding, while four in ten admitted to running a red light.

Additionally, the CAA found that 68 percent of people drove when they were too tired, and 54 percent admitted to using their phone while driving at least once in the past year.

In recent years, speed cameras have become more common on city streets, often stopping drivers who exceed the speed limit.

In 2023, Toronto City Council unanimously approved a motion to increase the number of cameras from 75 to 150. According to the city, speed cameras have effectively reduced the number of people speeding and the overall speed of vehicles, indicating increased compliance and better driver behavior.

CAA’s latest findings are based on a survey of 2,880 Canadians conducted from September 13 to 21, 2024.