National Car :: Canada

Canada summary

Key facts

Official language(s)

Currency

Population

Time zone

Calling code

Drive on the

Member of the EU

English and French

Canadian Dollar

33,710,000

GMT - 3.5 to - 8

Right

Local weather

Ottawa

Speed limits

Motorways:
- The speed limit is up to 100kmh except where signs indicate lower speeds – variable by Province. Speed limits are strictly enforced by radar and fines will apply
Open roads:
- Speed Limit on open roads is up to 80kmh (50mph). Signs will indicate the maximum speed
Towns:
- The speed limit in front of every school is 17kmh (15mph). When the warning lights are flashing signs will indicate maximum speeds in other residential areas and smaller towns. Built up areas 50km/h

Road Safety

Alcohol limit:
- Laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are strict and follow a policy of zero tolerance
- Alcohol can only be transported in the boot of a vehicle
Use of mobile phone whilst driving:
- It is illegal to use a hand held mobile phone when driving
- It is legal to use a hands free headset
Seat belts:
- It is compulsory for all passengers to wear seat belts
- Children under 32kgs (70lbs) must be restrained in a child safety seat
- The failure of motorists to wear seat belts and properly restrain young children in the vehicle are fineable offences
Traffic lights regulations:
- Green – Go
- Red – Stop
- Yellow/Amber – Caution, stop if possible
- Flashing Red – same as stop sign
- Flashing Amber – proceed with caution
- Flashing Green – advance left turn only – only applicable in Provinces, except British Columbia

Costs

Road tolls:
- Some of the major highways are toll roads but most are free
On the spot fines:
- On the spot fines are not issued in Canada but tickets will be issued for a number of offences and fines vary by Province
- Tickets are issued on the spot, with time limits for payment

General motoring advice

Rush hour in built up areas:
- Rush hour in major city centres is 1530 – 1900hrs
Fuel:
- Fuel stations are located easily and are very accessible
- On major highways there are signs to indicate in advance if there is a fuel station at the next exit
Parking advice:
- Metered parking is available to motorists and needs to be paid for the whole duration of the stay
- It is illegal for motorists to park within 6 feet of a fire hydrant or in front of a kerb which has been lowered
- Parking spaces are generally free on Sundays, Public holidays and out of business hours
- Make sure to check the meter for confirmation of hours

There is a policy of zero tolerance for drink driving and alcohol can only be carried in the boot of the car.

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