The Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF), in partnership with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), conducted a study investigating the divergence in traffic fatality trends between Canada and the United States from 2007 to 2021. While traffic fatalities in the U.S. began increasing after 2011, Canada maintained a declining trend. Using data on traffic fatalities and variables related to travel exposure, demographics, and risk factors, the research analyzed trends for total and crash-type-specific fatalities. The study identified key crash types responsible for these trends, including pedestrian and cyclist fatalities, alcohol-involved crashes, speeding-related incidents, and truck-involved fatalities. Statistics showed that more people and more vehicle miles travelled were linked to more deaths. But in Canada, stronger laws about distracted driving, seat belt use, and speed cameras helped reduce the number of fatal crashes.

The findings highlight significant differences in risk factors and enforcement strategies, such as Canada’s broader adoption of safety laws and administrative penalties for impaired driving. These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers aiming to reduce traffic fatalities, emphasizing the importance of stricter enforcement, improved safety measures, and addressing underlying risk factors. The study underscores the need for continued data collection and analysis to inform effective interventions and promote safer roadways in both nations.

View the full July 31, 2025 press release on the IIHS website: https://www.iihs.org/news/detail/strong-road-safety-policies-have-helped-keep-canada-on-track-study-shows