2023 Distracted Driving Risk Survey
According to the 2023 Travelers Canada Distracted Driving Risk Survey, drivers engage in distracted driving despite the risks. Among Canadian drivers surveyed, 30 per cent feel driving is less safe today than before the pandemic, and the same proportion admit to being involved in a crash or collision due to their own distracted driving. The latest findings show that technology continues to be a leading cause of distraction, but there are additional reasons that play a substantial role, including driving with heightened emotions, surroundings on the road and the behaviour of passengers.
2023 Travelers Canada Distracted Driving Risk Survey
If we know we’re driving distracted, why do we keep doing it?
Despite awareness of the dangers of distracted driving, risky behaviours and crashes are increasing.
We are aware of the threat: 30 per cent of Travelers Canada Risk Survey respondents noted they feel that driving has become more dangerous since the pandemic – a 36 per cent increase from 2022
Yet, we’ve had near misses: One-quarter of respondents have had a near miss because they were distracted, up 56 per cent from 2022
…and we’ve crashed: 19 per cent said another driver’s distracted driving led to them being involved in a crash or collision, up 58 per cent from the previous year
Canadian drivers continue to multitask:
63% use a cell phone or hands-free technology
56% read or look at a map on a cell phone or electronic device
48% make or receive phone calls
21% read texts or e-mails
17% use hand-held devices
58% eat or drink
Common stressors
78 per cent report the behaviours of other drivers increase their stress levels
62 per cent said they are affected by traffic
49 per cent said they find it stressful when looking for parking
43 per cent said following directions while driving can be stressful
Here’s what employers can do:
Have a policy
17 per cent of employees report they have an official policy prohibiting the use of devices for work while driving
93 per cent of those employees are likely to follow policies in place by their employer
Speak up
90 per cent of drivers who use a device while driving say they would be less likely to do so if a passenger asked them to stop
Here’s what you can do:
Power down: Turn off your device or use the “Do Not Disturb” function while driving
Explore telematics options: Technology that gathers driving data in real time can provide feedback for safer driving
Plan: Map out your route and parking location before getting behind the wheel
Learn more about the Travelers Canada Risk Survey and techniques you can use to help put the brakes on distracted driving. Visit travelerscanada.ca for more information.
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