Could Canada Teach the U.S. About Traffic Safety? A Comparative Look at Global Practices
As part of IBTTA’s Be Safe Together campaign, we’re exploring global road safety practices that reduce fatalities and save lives. A growing body of research highlights that the United States can learn from Canada’s progress in improving traffic safety outcomes through stronger enforcement, policy alignment, and a robust safety culture.
A recent study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in partnership with Canada’s Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF), found that Canada’s traffic death rate is less than half that of the U.S.—placing it 14th out of 29 high-income countries, while the U.S. ranks last. Despite similarities in infrastructure and vehicle fleets, Canada’s commitment to distracted driving laws, automated speed enforcement, and seat belt compliance has helped it outperform its southern neighbor.
Between 2010 and 2020, Canada’s road fatalities decreased, while U.S. fatalities rose nearly 19%. In 2020, Canada reported 46 traffic deaths per million people compared to 118 per million in the U.S. OECD data from 2022 reflected a similar divide, with Canada experiencing roughly 5 fatalities per 100,000 population versus more than 12 in the U.S.
Behavioral studies suggest that Canadian drivers are less likely to engage in high-risk behaviors like using mobile phones behind the wheel or driving impaired. These differences, combined with policy consistency across provinces, appear to be key contributors to Canada’s relative success.
Still, there is encouraging news: U.S. traffic fatalities declined by 3.8% in 2023—the lowest number since 2020. While 39,345 lives were lost, the downward trend marks a step in the right direction as transportation agencies and industry partners continue to prioritize safety nationwide. We support the leadership of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration in advancing efforts to make roads safer for all users and the commitment of so many state and local transportation organizations to safe system principles and Vision Zero.
By spotlighting effective models and aligning with global best practices, IBTTA and its members are helping build a safer future—on every road, for every traveler. Learn more by reading the full article from Consumer Affairs: Could Canada Teach the U.S. About Traffic Safety?