Traffic congestion steams Canadian drivers

The fifth annual Nerves of Steel Aggressive Driving Study commissioned by TheSteelAlliance and Canada Safety Council, found that 90% of Canadians surveyed believe that traffic congestion can fuel aggressive driving and more than 40% said they become frustrated or aggressive when stuck in traffic.

"When you combine stress with stand-still traffic during rush hour, you find drivers become frustrated over their lack of control with their situation," says Emile Therien, president of the Canada Safety Council. "As roads become increasingly congested, aggressive driving will continue to escalate."

Of those polled, 84% admit they have engaged in aggressive driving such as running through yellow lights or driving over the speed limit. Although this is 4% less than last year, it is still a concern for Canadians, since 72% of respondents feel that the incidence of aggressive driving is increasing. The study also determined that 65% of Canadians polled believe traffic congestion is increasing.

"The first line of defence toward road safety is being alert while behind the wheel and to focus solely on driving," says Bill Heenan, president of TheSteelAlliance. "The last line of defence is to make sure your vehicle is designed to protect you in the event of a collision."

Steel is the overwhelming choice of Canadians polled as the number one material to protect themselves and their families in the event of a collision. More than 80% of those with an opinion felt steel provided more protection than other materials such as aluminum, fibreglass and plastic. The modern high strength steels used in automobile production today offer increased durability and crash resistance while providing mass reduction, fuel efficiency and design flexibility.

For further information, please visit: http://www.thenewsteel.com/nos or http://www.safety-council.org