Distracted Driving
Let’s talk about distracted driving. It’s your phone buzzing, the GPS and the morning coffee you just grabbed before rushing out the door. These distractions take your attention away from the road and can pose a serious threat to your safety—as well as the safety of those around you.
Statistics
Distracted driving takes your eyes, and mind, off the road. Here are some surprising statistics on distracted driving:
23X
Drivers who engaged in text messaging are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash or near crash event compared to non-distracted drivers. (Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, 2010)
84%
84% of distracted-driving-related fatalities in the US were tied to the general classification of carelessness or inattentiveness. (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2009)
80%
80% of collisions and 65% of near crashes have some form of driver inattention as contributing factors. (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2010)
3X
Distracted drivers are 3 times more likely to be in a crash than attentive drivers. (Alberta Transportation, 2011)
Tips on How to Avoid Distracted Driving
Distractions come in many forms. This is why it is important to always stay focused on the road. Take a look at our tips to avoid distractions and help keep our roads safe.
Distracted Driving Laws in Canada
Distracted driving is a national issue. As a result, all 10 provinces and 2 of 3 territories in Canada have some form of cell phone/distracted driving legislation in place.
Crash Odds
Drivers engaged in the following distractions are more likely to be in a crash or near crash event compared with non-distracted drivers.
Text messaging (texting) on a cell phone
23x
more likely
Talking on a cell phone
4–5x
more likely
Reading
3x
more likely
Applying makeup
3x
more likely