Wildest Driving Myths in Canada—Busted!

Canada’s roads stretch across some of the most diverse terrains in the world—from icy highways in the Yukon to busy urban intersections in Toronto. And along with that variety comes a host of driving myths—some harmless, others potentially dangerous. Today, we’re busting the wildest and most persistent driving myths in Canada.

Myth 1: You can’t get tickets in parking Busted: Many drivers believe that because private parking spaces are not “public roads”, traffic laws do not apply. Right. While private property has some legal gray areas, the police can still issue tickets to crimes such as reduced driving, stunt driving or even failing for pedestrians.

Municipal city officers can also fix you for parking at a fire or available place without permission - even in the mall or apartment.

Myth 2: You can walk 10 km/h in the speed range and keep you safe Busted: Although it is true that some officials can use discretion and do not prevent you from walking a little more than the speed limit, it is not a right. Speed - 1 or 15 km/h - is still illegal. School areas, social security sector or building areas, even small fractures can lead to fines and down points.

If you pull, “Running with flow” will not protect you.

Myth 3: Tires with the whole season is good for Canadian winter Busted: “All season” does not mean “all-climate”. In many Canadian provinces - especially Ontario, Quebec and BC - require almost winter conditions appropriate winter tires. All-Seasons lose grip in temperatures below 7 ° C and do not offer uniform traction or braking power on ice or ice.

In Quebec, the winter tires are mandatory by the law from December 1 to March 15. In other provinces, you may not be legally necessary, but insurance discounts and extra security make them a smart alternative.

Myth 4: Handless means you don’t get distracted Busted: Using Bluetooth or Voice command can place your hands on the steering wheel, but the study shows that it still affects your focus and response time. Cognitive distraction is real - and there is a great reason that distracted driving has overpowered driving as the main cause of conflict in some provinces.

In Ontario, using a phone-to and with the hand-free-free-free and with the claims can result in the results if you are clearly distracted or useless running.

Myth 5: Running in barefoot or flip-flop is fine Busted: Although there is no specific law prohibiting barefoot driving in Canada, it is not recommended. Flip-flops, heels or bare feet can slip or get trapped, which may affect your control in emergencies. If you cause accidents due to poor footwear, you may be accused of careless driving.

The best approach? Hold a pair of safe, closed foot shoes in your car in the case.

Myth 6: You should always specify when changing the streets on an empty road Confirmed - not a myth: This is really true, and many drivers still do not. The Highway Traffic Act requires signaling every time you change lanes or directions, even if other vehicles are present. This is not just etiquette - this is the law.

Due to the failure of the signal, you can earn fine and Demerit points, even if the road looks empty.

Myth 7: Flashing Your High Beams Can Legally Warn Others About Speed Traps Busted: This is a popular belief, especially on highways—but in some provinces, flashing high beams to warn others of speed enforcement can get you in trouble. In Ontario, this could be considered interfering with police duty, depending on context.

It’s better to let each driver face the consequences of their own speed.