Canadians are facing a more challenging driving environment shaped by distraction, stress and risky behaviour on the road, according to a new national survey commissioned by Desjardins Insurance.
The 2026 survey of nearly 4,000 Canadians found that while distracted driving remains the most widely recognized road safety concern, drivers are increasingly dealing with a combination of factors that can affect concentration, decision-making and overall safety behind the wheel.
Thee in five respondents identified distracted driving as one of the top risks on Canadian roads. However, the survey noted that the sources of distraction are changing. External factors such as traffic congestion, pedestrians and activity outside the vehicle were identified as the leading distraction by 35 per cent of respondents, ahead of cell-phone-related distractions at 32 per cent.
In-vehicle technology was cited by 26 per cent of respondents as a significant source of distraction, while 22 per cent pointed to everyday behaviours such as eating or drinking while driving.
The survey also found many Canadians are driving while under stress or fatigued. Nearly half of respondents (49 per cent) said they frequently feel stressed or tired while behind the wheel, highlighting the role that mental strain can play in reaction times and driving performance.
“Road safety is about more than individual behaviour, it’s shaped by the conditions drivers face every day,” said Valérie Lavoie, president and chief operating officer of Desjardins General Insurance Group. “Canadians are navigating distraction, stress and constant external demands all at once.”
In addition to their own experiences, many Canadians report regularly witnessing unsafe behaviour from other motorists.
The survey found:
- 68 per cent frequently see aggressive driving.
- 19 per cent report observing alcohol-impaired driving.
- 24 per cent report witnessing cannabis-impaired driving.
- 85 per cent recognize speeding as a major road safety risk.
Despite broad recognition of the dangers associated with speeding, the survey found a disconnect between awareness and behaviour. While 85 per cent identified speeding as a significant risk, 26 per cent said it is acceptable to exceed posted speed limits.
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