Tips for Driving In Canada

On the Road

• Canadians drive on the right.

• Get used to the metric system. Speeds and distances appear in kilometers, not miles.

• Learn a little French. Quebec is largely bilingual, and some information will appear only in French.

• Speed limits are typically posted, but just in case, common maximum speeds are as follows:

• 50 km per hour in and around cities

• 80-100 km per hour on highways

• 60-80 km per hour in rural areas

• Radar detectors are illegal. Leave them at home.

Safety

• Most U.S. safety precautions apply. Seat belts and child safety seats are required by law.

• Canada requires daytime running lights. Turn your headlights on whenever you hit the road, regardless of the time of day.

• There's no right turn on red in some locations, notably Montreal and Quebec City.

• DWI offenses are severe in Canada, and the country takes offenders seriously. If you have a DWI record in the U.S., you will need to apply for a special waiver to enter Canada. The process takes a few weeks, so contact your nearest Canadian consulate and plan ahead.

Emergencies

If you break down or get into a traffic accident, remember your U.S. insurance and motor-club memberships. Call the local authorities, your insurance providers, or, in the event of a serious accident, your nearest U.S. consulate. 911 works for emergency assistance as well, just like in the States.

Take special caution if you travel Highway 401 between Detroit and Montreal. This is one of the busier thoroughfares on the continent, and it's subject to rapid changes in weather. Add all of the commercial traffic, and you can see why the 401 has been subject to some horrific accidents in the recent past.

Distance Calculator and Driving Directions Canada