Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Canada
Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Canada – and How You Can Stay Safe
Have you ever noticed that car accidents seem to be on the rise lately? You’re not imagining things. In 2022, motor vehicle fatalities in Canada increased by 6%, according to Transport Canada. Even more concerning, accidents resulting in personal injury claims jumped by 9.5% – the biggest spike in over a decade.
While we’re still not back to pre-Covid numbers, this upward trend is a wake-up call. So, what’s causing the rise in car accidents across the country? According to the same statistics released by Transport Canada, in 2022 the top four leading causes of fatal car accidents in Canada were:
- Impaired driving/driving under the influence (23%)
- Speed/driving too fast (21.9%)
- Environmental factors (21.9%)
- Distracted driving (19.9%)
Let’s break down these factors to see how you can best protect yourself and your loved ones on the road.
Impaired Driving
Impaired driving tops the list as the leading cause of fatal car accidents in Canada. This doesn’t just mean drunk driving; it includes operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. According to the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, this definition includes:
- Cars
- Trucks
- Boats
- Snowmobiles
- Motorcycles
- ATVs
- And more
In an article written for CBC News, an addiction specialist with Addiction Rehab Toronto highlighted the fact that alcohol and drugs significantly affect your judgment and slow your reaction time. Even if you don’t intend to hurt anyone, driving while impaired puts everyone at risk.
So what can you do about it?
- Plan Ahead: If you’re going to drink or use substances, arrange for a designated driver, call a taxi, use a rideshare service, or take public transportation.
- Speak Up: If you see someone who intends to drive impaired, don’t hesitate to intervene.
If you or someone you know has been affected by an impaired driver, reach out to Preszler Law Alberta to explore your legal options.
Speeding and Driving Too Fast
Speeding is the second leading cause of fatal accidents in Canada. In fact, one in four deadly crashes involves a driver going too fast. Speeding can:
- Reduce your ability to stop in time
- Make it harder to steer safely
- Increase the severity of a crash if it happens
- Cause you to misjudge distances from other vehicles or obstacles
- And more
According to Parachute, Canada’s national injury prevention charity, even a small reduction in speed can make a big difference. Lowering your average speed by just 1.6 km/h can reduce collisions by 5%
What actions can you take to abstain from driving too fast on the road?
- Obey set speed limits
- Adjust for weather or road conditions
- Avoid drivers who are speeding excessively
Given the huge impact that speeding has had on car accidents recently, many organizations across the country are advocating for lower speed limits on Canadian roads and harsher punishments for drivers caught speeding.
Environmental Factors
Canada’s weather can be a mixed bag – from snowy winters to foggy mornings and rainy afternoons. These conditions can make driving challenging by reducing visibility and making roads slippery. Wildlife crossings can also have a significant effect. According to Ontario Nature, in Ontario alone, there are about 14,000 collisions with large animals each year, which account for approximately 10% of all vehicle accidents in the province.
When you’re driving, you should always:
- Check the weather and road conditions before you head out
- Use winter tires in colder months and keep your car well-maintained
- Reduce your speed to allow for better reaction times to road hazards
- Watch for wildlife and slow down in areas where animals might be common.
For more tips on driving safely during unpredictable weather events, read our article here.
Distractions
Distracted driving isn’t just about texting behind the wheel. Transport Canada defines it as any act where “a driver’s attention is taken away from the driving task because they are focused on something else”. It can include:
- Talking to passengers
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the road or GPS
- And more
These distractions can be just as dangerous as impaired driving because they reduce your awareness and slow your reaction time. To take precautions, you can:
- Adjust your GPS and choose your music before hitting the road
- Keep your phone away and out of reach to avoid temptation
- Stay focused and keep your conversations with others light
If distracted driving has caused you harm, Preszler Injury Lawyers can help you understand your rights and options. Contact us today.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
In 2022, the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents outlined in this article resulted in nearly 90,000 collisions. Car accidents like these can lead to a range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Paralysis
- And more
These injuries can have long-lasting effects on your life. Medical bills can pile up, you may have to miss work, and the emotional toll can be overwhelming. If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation or benefits.
Contact Preszler Injury Lawyers Today if You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident
At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we’re committed to helping car and motor vehicle accident victims get back on their feet. We understand the challenges you’re facing and are here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t wait – the sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you navigate the road to recovery.
