Ontario Drivers Know Dangerous Driving Is a Problem - So Why Does It Keep Happening?

July 28, 2026, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Nearly every Ontario driver has seen dangerous driving. Yet many don't believe they're part of the problem.

A newly released survey from CAA South Central Ontario paints a concerning picture of driving habits across the province. According to the research, 96% of Ontario drivers reported witnessing dangerous driving over the past year, but only 57% admitted to engaging in at least one risky driving behaviour themselves.

That disconnect matters.

At Deutschmann de Koning Personal Injury Law, we've represented individuals and families whose lives changed in an instant because another driver made a poor decision. While statistics help identify trends, every collision represents a real person dealing with injuries, financial uncertainty, and a lengthy recovery.

The Most Common Dangerous Driving Behaviours

The CAA survey identified several behaviours that Ontario drivers regularly observe on our roads:

• Speeding
• Aggressive driving
• Unsafe lane changes
• Distracted driving

Perhaps most concerning is that speeding remains the most commonly admitted dangerous behaviour, with many drivers acknowledging they routinely travel 10 to 19 km/h above the posted speed limit.

Many motorists view this as relatively harmless.

Unfortunately, physics disagrees.

Even modest increases in speed reduce reaction time, increase stopping distance, and dramatically increase the force involved in a collision. What might have been a minor fender bender at the speed limit can become a life-altering crash when a vehicle is travelling just a little faster.

Distracted Driving Continues to Cause Serious Injuries

The survey also highlighted another ongoing concern: distracted driving.

CAA found that 16% of Ontario drivers reported being involved in a collision caused by distracted driving, with rear-end collisions remaining one of the most common outcomes.

Distractions today extend far beyond texting.

Modern vehicles contain increasingly complex infotainment systems, navigation screens, voice controls, and smartphone integrations. While these technologies offer convenience, they also create more opportunities for drivers to take their eyes—and attention—off the road.

It takes only a few seconds of distraction for traffic conditions to change dramatically.

Why Driver Behaviour Matters

One of the most interesting findings from the survey is psychological rather than legal.

Nearly everyone recognizes dangerous driving when they see someone else doing it.

Far fewer recognize it in themselves.

This phenomenon is known as optimism bias—the tendency to believe that other drivers are the problem while assuming our own behaviour is safe or justified.

Unfortunately, collisions don't distinguish between intentional and unintentional mistakes.

Whether a driver is speeding "just a little," glances at a phone notification, changes lanes without properly checking blind spots, or follows another vehicle too closely, the consequences can be devastating.

What Happens After a Serious Collision?

If you've been injured because another driver was negligent, your focus should be on your recovery—not battling insurance companies.

Ontario's accident benefits system can be complex, and determining whether you also have the right to pursue compensation through a lawsuit depends on several legal factors, including:

• The circumstances of the collision
• The severity of your injuries
• Insurance coverage
• Liability investigations
• Medical evidence documenting your recovery

Many people assume insurance companies will automatically offer fair compensation.

Unfortunately, that isn't always the case.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights, explain your options, and ensure important deadlines are not missed.

Prevention Is Always Better Than Litigation

No legal claim can erase the pain of a catastrophic injury or restore lost time with family.

The best outcome is preventing collisions before they occur.

Simple habits can significantly improve road safety:

• Put your phone away before driving.
• Leave extra travel time to avoid speeding.
• Maintain safe following distances.
• Stay patient in heavy traffic.
• Remember that every other road user is someone's family member.

Small decisions behind the wheel often determine whether everyone gets home safely.

Trusted Guidance When You Need It Most

At Deutschmann de Koning Personal Injury Law, we have spent decades helping injured Ontarians navigate the legal challenges that follow serious motor vehicle collisions.

If you or someone you love has been injured because another driver's negligence caused a crash, understanding your legal rights early can make a significant difference in protecting your future.

Our experienced team is committed to providing compassionate guidance, practical advice, and strong advocacy so you can focus on what matters most, your recovery.

If you've been injured in a motor vehicle accident anywhere in Ontario, contact Deutschmann de Koning Personal Injury Law for trusted legal advice and experienced representation.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.