How Canadians view risky drivers

Canadians see drivers under 25 as the riskiest on the road, according to a new study.

Scrap Car Comparison found that while 82 per cent hold that view, Canadians are towards the lower end when ranking the top 10 countries that believe young drivers are the riskiest on the road.

The survey of drivers in 18 countries examined trust and confidence across age groups. Australia led with 90 per cent, followed by the U.K. at 88 per cent, with the U.S., New Zealand and the Netherlands coming at 84 per cent

Across all countries, 77 per cent of respondents said drivers under 25 take the most risks.

In Canada, older millennials were viewed as the safest, with 52 per cent saying they feel most comfortable with a driver aged 35 to 44. At the other end, 65 per cent said drivers aged 75 and older tend to drive too slowly.

More than half said those aged 75 and older are the slowest on the road. Nearly half said people should stop driving in their seventies, and only 18 per cent would feel comfortable riding with someone over 80.

Scrap Car Comparison said the results point to clear generational gaps. Younger drivers are seen as less predictable, while experience and composure are viewed as strengths among midlife motorists. The study also found that experience matters more than age, with 70 per cent of respondents worldwide saying time on the road is what makes a good driver.

“Whether you’re 18 or 80, everyone believes they’re a good driver, but perception plays a huge role in how we view others on the road,” said Matt Clamp, customer service manager at Scrap Car Comparison. “Age brings both confidence and caution, but what truly defines a safe driver is experience and awareness.”

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