Highway speed limit in Canada

Speed limits throughout Canada form a complex network of roadways that connect all provinces and territories. However, unlike how highways are in the United States or overseas, highway speed limits work a little differently, which can make things kind of confusing. So, in an effort to make sure Canadians understand speed limits throughout each province, stick around to learn more!

What is the maximum speed limit in Km/H in Canada?

Speed limits in Canada are determined by the federal government, provincial government, and municipal government, depending on the specific jurisdiction in which the highway sections and other roadways are located.

For example, the speed limits in Ontario may vary from those in British Columbia, which is why it's important to pay attention to the speed limits posted on provincial highways if you are travelling from coast to coast. In Canada, speed limits are measured in Km/h. Here's an overview of the maximum speed limits in Canada, which vary by jurisdiction and location:

Federal highways

Federal highways, such as the Trans-Canada Highway, were originally designed to connect all provinces and territories across the country. Depending on which jurisdiction you are in, the highway speed limit can vary between 90 km/h and 110 km/h.

Provincial highways

Provincial highways that fall under the jurisdiction of the provincial government can reach up to speeds of 120 km/h, like in British Columbia.

School zones and community safety zones

School zones will always have low speed limits, and speeding in these areas can result in significant fines and other consequences. The same goes for community safety zones, such as community centres where small children and families gather.

Construction zones

Municipal governments are able to temporarily change the speed limit posted along highway sections if it is a construction zone. Construction zones are dangerous and can put workers at risk of injury. If you are caught with radar detectors speeding in these areas, you can face hefty fines, often double the normal fine amount for speeding.

What are statutory speed limits in Canada

Statutory speed limits, also known as default speed limits, are established in certain areas and portions of highways where no physical sign is posted.

Where do statutory speed limits exist?

So, where exactly do statutory speed limits exist in Canada? Regardless of if you are in Ontario, British Columbia, or another province, common default limits exist in these areas:

Urban areas

In urban areas like Toronto and Vancouver, the statutory speed limit is 50 km/h. However, once you leave the city, you can expect higher speed limits.

Rural areas

In more rural areas in Canada, the speed limit increases to around 80 km/h. However, this may change from province to province and vary based on the road conditions or area you are located in.

School zones

School zones in Canada, unless otherwise posted, have a speed limit of 30 km/h. This low-speed limit is intended to uphold children's safety at all times.

Residential areas

Residential areas in Canada typically have the same speed limit as downtown cores, at 50 km/h. However, in some residential spots, the limit can decrease to about 30 km/h to 40 km/h.

Freeways

Canadian freeways, also known as expressways that allow for long-distance travel with minimal intersections and red lights, have speeds of 100 km/h to 110 km/h.

Farm areas

And while travelling in agricultural areas, you can anticipate speeds of 30 km/h or lower to accommodate farm equipment that may be on the roads.

Why do speed limits exist?

Speed limits on main highways, downtown cores, and more rural areas exist for two main reasons:

Road safety

The first is road safety. Speeding and stunt driving can lead to accidents, injuries, and death. To ensure that Canadian motorists are safe while behind the wheel, certain speed limits are required.

To manage traffic flows

The second reason is to manage traffic in the area. Speed limits are used to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion in urban areas. By doing so, most Canadian provinces can reduce travel times, prevent buildups, and keep drivers safe.

What happens if you are caught speeding?

Speeding in Canada is illegal under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act and can lead to numerous consequences, given the risk speeding poses to others. And, while the consequences for speeding can vary between provinces and territories, if you do not follow speed limits and cause an accident, you could be convicted of reckless and dangerous driving, which is a Criminal Code Offence. So, what happens if you get speeding tickets in Ontario or other provinces? Find out more by reading below:

Demerit points

Demerit points are penalties that are added to your driver's licence if you do not follow traffic laws and are convicted as such. For example, ignoring posted speed limits, failing to stop for a pedestrian, and driving without valid insurance are just some of the leading causes of Canadian motorists' receiving these penalties.

These penalties will range between provinces and territories. However, the more points you have, the more of an effect it can have on your driver's licence and history.

Careless or dangerous driving conviction

Now, if you are involved in a car accident where you blatantly ignore posted speed limits, and injuries occur, regardless of what Canadian province you live in, you could be charged with careless or dangerous driving.

If you are found guilty, you could spend up to 14 years in jail. In the unfortunate event that someone is killed, that could land you in prison for the rest of your life. You will also have a criminal record moving forward.

Monetary fines

If you are caught going above the speed limits in Canadian provinces, you will also get a fine. The amount of money you are ordered to pay, however, will differ between provinces and depend on how fast you are going. Most speeding tickets are appealable in court if you believe you were unfairly ticketed.

Driver's licence suspension

Those who are caught excessively speeding in Canada will not only receive a traffic ticket but could also have their licence suspended and their vehicle impounded, depending on how many previous points they have on their driver's licence.

Insurance premium increase

And, of course, if you fail to follow the posted speed limit and are caught by law enforcement, the next time you go to renew your insurance, you can anticipate paying more for your coverage. Studies show that speeding leads to accidents. As such, your insurance provider will deem you more of a risk to insure and charge you more for coverage in the future.

Protect yourself behind the wheel with comprehensive car insurance

To operate a motor vehicle in Canada, all drivers must purchase car insurance, no matter what province or territory they live in. While the types of auto insurance listed below are either optional or mandatory, having the right amount of coverage is key to ensuring you're protected in the event the unexpected happens and you're involved in an accident:

• Liability car insurance
• Accident benefits coverage
• Uninsured motorist coverage
• Direct compensation - property damage insurance
• Collision car coverage
• Comprehensive car coverage
• Accident forgiveness insurance

Contact BrokerLink for affordable vehicle coverage in Canada

Looking for affordable car insurance? Interested in learning more about how you can safely accommodate speed limits while on the go? BrokerLink has got you covered. Our brokers have years of professional experience helping Canadians find the right insurance coverage for their needs while answering their questions and concerns.

With broker locations across Canada, BrokerLink is a trusted insurance solution in your neighbourhood. If you're located nearby, come on in and visit us in person. If you're available for a face-to-face meeting, give us a call during business hours to speak with one of our team members. Or, if you're looking for quick insurance options right away, use our online quote tool for a customized insurance quote right from your device!

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FAQs: highway speed limit in Canada

What is the highest speed limit in Canada?

The highest speed limit in Canada is in British Columbia, 120 km/h, which is on the Coquihalla that stretches from Hope in the lower mainland to Kamloops, which is located in the interior of the province, close to the Alberta border.

How fast can you go on a Canadian Highway?

In Canada, the minimum speed limit for drivers is 60 km/h, and the maximum speed limit is 110 km/h, depending on which provincial highways you are driving on. However, while the speed limit of 110 km/h is the maximum, it's generally accepted that motorists can drive up to 120 km/h depending on the flow of traffic. If you plan on taking a trip across Canada, make sure you take note of the posted limits to ensure that you are following the law and driving responsibly. You can also brush up on safe driving tips in the meantime for peace of mind and a smooth ride to your destination and back.

What is the speed limit on 401 in Canada?

The 401 is a stretch of highway that goes between Northern and Southern Ontario. On this highway, the maximum speed limit is 100 km/h. However, in some areas, the posted speed limit is 80 Km/h, while in others, it is 110 km/h.

Where in Canada is the speed limit 110?

Some areas in Canada that have speed limits of 110 km/h are Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. These are typically on divided highways where both lanes of traffic are going the same way. In contrast, the other Canadian provinces have a maximum speed limit of 100 km/h.

Is there such a thing as speeding ticket insurance?

There are all types of car insurance available, but, unfortunately, speeding ticket insurance is not one of them. Not following the speeding limit can put you and others at risk of injuries and death. In fact, some of the most common car accidents are due to ignoring posted speed limits. As such, if you get tickets for speeding, you can expect to face substantial fines and demerit points, along with the suspension of your driver's licence in certain scenarios. In the event your licence is suspended due to speeding fines, you may be required to take remedial driving courses or be insured in a high-risk market.

How do you report a car accident that occurs on a highway?

So, how do you report a car accident that occurs on a highway? Because there are no posted road signs or intersections, reporting a car accident can be difficult, especially if you aren't sure where you are. The best thing you can do is call the police as soon as you move your vehicle to the shoulder, if possible and assess yourself for injuries. While there may be no signs nearby, police can easily track your location using the GPS on your phone. So, once you've called in the accident, they should be able to locate you. If you can, mention certain landmarks close by, as it can help police officers as well.

What does a yellow speed limit sign mean?

Suppose you've ever seen yellow speed limit signs while behind the wheel. You may have questions about what they mean. A yellow speed limit sign, also known as an advisory sign, provides suggested speeds in highway sections that are hazardous when certain road conditions are present. For example, if you are driving on a highway that has a sharp curve in it, these types of signs will be posted to warn drivers to slow down when weather conditions are unfavourable.

Will a speed camera ticket affect my insurance rates?

So, will a speed camera ticket affect insurance? Unlike speeding tickets given to you by law enforcement, ones that are taken with a speed camera and mailed to you will not affect your insurance premiums. Why? Speed cameras aren't able to confirm who was driving the vehicle at the time its speed was recorded. This makes it difficult to charge the driver in the event that they are found to be speeding. Therefore, while you'll still need to pay the traffic ticket that was given to you, you can rest assured that your insurance rates won't be impacted.

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