Distracted driving remains a serious issue on Canadian roads, with texting being one of the most dangerous (and common) behaviors. Recent statistics show alarming trends across the country that should concern every driver.
Nearly half of Canadian drivers (47%) admit using their mobile phones while driving, significantly increasing their risk of being involved in an accident.
The consequences of texting while driving are severe.
You are 23 times more likely to crash than drivers who keep their full attention on the road. This dramatic increase in risk helps explain why distracted driving contributes to approximately 22.5% of all fatal collisions in Canada, according to Transport Canada’s National Collision Database.
Despite growing awareness campaigns and stricter penalties, the habit persists among Canadians.
Texting and Driving Statistics in Canada
Nearly half (47%) of Canadian drivers admit to using their mobile phones while driving. This includes both typing messages and using voice-memo features to communicate.
The consequences of this behavior are severe. Drivers who text are 3.6 times more likely to crash than those who keep their full attention on the road.
According to Transport Canada, distracted driving contributed to approximately 22.5% of all fatal collisions in the country.
The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) reports that even a brief distraction can be deadly. Sending or reading a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for about 5 seconds.
Key Statistics:
47% of Canadians admit to texting or using phone features while driving
Texting increases crash risk by 23 times
Distracted driving contributes to 22.5% of fatal collisions
Reading a text takes about 5 seconds of visual attention away from the road
Nearly 3 out of 4 Canadian drivers admit to driving distracted in some form
These numbers highlight the significant public safety issue that texting while driving presents in Canada. Even with strict laws against distracted driving, many Canadians continue this dangerous habit.
Legislation Against Texting and Driving
Driver driving a car distracted on the phone
Every province and territory in Canada has laws against distracted driving, specifically focusing on texting while driving. These laws aim to reduce accidents and save lives on Canadian roads.
Province/Territory
Fine Range
Demerit Points
License Suspension
Alberta
$287
3
None
British Columbia
$543
4
3-12 months for two or more infractions within 12 months
Vehicle seizure up to 7 days (2nd offense within 1 year)
Yukon
$500
3
None
Please note that while we try our best to keep the information current, laws may change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the official government websites of each province or territory.
Impact of Distracted Driving on Road Safety
Distracted driving has become one of the most serious threats to public safety on Canadian roads. 21% of fatal collisions in Canada are caused by distracted driving, making it one of the leading causes of deaths on roadways, second to speeding at 25%.
The risk of accidents increases dramatically with distractions. When drivers use mobile phones while driving, the likelihood of a collision is increased 3.6 times.
The statistics clearly show that using electronic devices while driving creates a significant safety risk. Texting, in particular, combines all three types of distraction:
Visual (eyes off road)
Manual (hands-off wheel)
Cognitive (mind off driving)
Awareness campaigns continue to educate drivers about these dangers, but the statistics show that distracted driving remains a critical safety issue on Canadian roads.
Comparison with Other Forms of Impaired Driving
Distracted driving, especially texting while driving, has become a significant road safety concern in Canada. It now rivals traditional forms of impairment like alcohol and drugs in its danger and prevalence.
In some parts of Canada, fatalities from distracted driving have surpassed those caused by impaired driving, according to the Traffic Injury Research Foundation’s 2019 data.
A recent comparison shows that both issues pose similar risks to Canadian road safety. The Traffic Injury Research Foundation found that the behaviors are shared in relation to driver attitudes and frequency patterns.
Self-reported driving behaviors (2020):
13.6% of Canadians often drove while talking on handheld devices
31.5% often talked hands-free while driving
11.2% often texted while driving
Similar percentages report driving after consuming alcohol or drugs
The risk factors are striking.
Law enforcement now treats distracted driving with similar seriousness to alcohol and drug impairment, with significant penalties in all provinces.
