Traffic Deaths in U.S. Could Be Reduced by Adopting Canadian Road Safety Policies: IIHS

Research indicates broader enforcement of traffic laws in the U.S. could significantly reduce fatal crashes.

An independent, non-profit organization has found that stronger distracted driving and seat belt laws, along with broader use of speed safety cameras, have helped Canada reduce road fatalities more effectively than the U.S.

In a new study published late last month, researchers from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) attributed Canada’s success to its policies, which have helped it stay on track as the U.S. has faltered.

Traffic deaths in the U.S. have been steadily rising since 2011, after a long period of decline, while fatalities in Canada have continued to fall. 

Among 29 high-income countries, the U.S. has the highest per capita crash fatality rate, more than twice the average of the other 28. In contrast, Canada’s rate is less than half that of the U.S. and ranks 14th among the group.

For the study, IIHS researchers partnered with Canada’s Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF) to explore the reasons behind the two countries’ differing traffic fatality trends.

Researchers analyzed crash data from 2007 to 2021 in the U.S., and from 2007 to 2020 in Canada, to examine total fatalities by crash type.

Results showed that from 2011 to 2021, traffic fatalities in the U.S. increased by 33%, while in Canada they declined by 18% from 2011 to 2020, even as Canada saw faster growth in both licensed drivers and total miles driven.

Researchers found that the crash types with the largest fatality increases in the U.S. were the same ones that declined significantly in Canada. For instance:

• Pedestrian and cyclist deaths: Up 4% in the U.S. vs. down 17% in Canada
• Large truck fatalities: Up 54% in the U.S. vs. down 24% in Canada
• Young driver deaths: Up 17% in the U.S. vs. down 52% in Canada

Deaths involving alcohol impairment and speeding also increased in the U.S., while decreasing in Canada.

Statistical analysis showed that population growth, economic activity and employment were linked to higher fatality rates. In contrast, laws restricting phone use while driving, stronger seat belt laws and wider use of safety cameras were associated with fewer deaths.

While many U.S. states have strong seat belt and distracted driving laws, as well as laws allowing speed safety cameras, these policies cover a larger share of the Canadian population than the U.S. population.

Researchers concluded that U.S. fatalities would be lower if these laws were as widespread as they are in Canada. However, they noted other factors not included in the models, such as stricter enforcement of blood alcohol concentration limits in Canada, may also influence fatality rates.

The IIHS is a nonprofit research group known for its vehicle crash tests and safety ratings. It works to reduce traffic deaths, injuries and crashes. 

Addressing U.S. Traffic Fatalities

The U.S. is facing a dangerous wave of traffic-related deaths. Teen driver traffic fatalities have been rising in recent years, while pedestrian fatalities remain nearly 20% higher than they were in 2016.

Significant threats to road safety include larger vehicle sizes and illuminated, dynamic advertising displays in urban areas, both of which have been linked to higher accident risks.

To combat rising traffic fatalities in the U.S., the IIHS has proposed a “30×30” plan, aimed to reduce traffic deaths by 30% by 2030 through lower speed limits, increased seat belt use, and reduced legal blood alcohol limits for drivers.

Sign up for more safety and legal news that could affect you or your family.