For over a hundred years, CAA has been helping Canadians stay mobile, safe and protected. The CAA Club Group is Canada’s largest automotive association comprised of two clubs, CAA South Central Ontario and CAA Manitoba, providing roadside assistance, travel, insurance service and member savings for over 2.3 million members. It also includes the CAA Insurance Company (a national property and casualty insurance company), the Orion Travel Insurance company and Echelon Insurance Company (a specialty insurer).


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Canadian Automobile Association - Aug 22, 2018

CAA Launches Towing Bill of Rights to help consumers.
New consumer protection campaign includes distribution to 10,000 Ontario motorists.

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) officially unveiled a Towing Bill of Rights for consumers this morning, as part of a series of initiatives for Tow Safety Week.

CAA Launches Towing Bill of Rights to Help Consumers

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) and Mirvish Productions are proud to announce a new marketing partnership that brings together one of Canada’s largest membership associations and the country’s leading theatrical organization.      

The multi-faceted partnership puts the CAA brand and its members front and centre within the Mirvish Theatre network. It includes the naming rights of the new CAA Theatre (formerly the Panasonic Theatre), home of the Off-Mirvish series; branded lounges at the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre and the Princess of Wales Theatre; and benefits for CAA members.      

The newly named CAA Theatre is located at 651 Yonge Street south of Bloor Street and has a capacity of 700 seats. This is the flagship venue for exciting new theatrical works, from popular entertainment to the latest cutting-edge plays including the Off-Mirvish series.

CAA Theatre (former the Panasonic Theatre)

Canadian Automobile Association Announcement: 

CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) in partnership with Ontario Tire Stewardship (OTS) unveiled a new outdoor classroom for the students of Tecumseh Public School.

CAA - June 20/2017

CAA reveals provincial and regional lists for 2017
Hamilton’s Burlington Street East voted Ontario’s Worst Road

CAA - June 1/2017

Canadian Automobile Association 
Voting now open for CAA Worst Roads in Ontario
Annual campaign highlights needed roadway investments across Ontario

CAA Worst Roads - April 10/2017

media-release-caa-survey-finds-many-canadians-dont-think-they-need-travel-insurance-when-travelling-in-canada

MEDIA RELEASE: CAA survey finds many Canadians don’t think they need travel insurance when travelling in Canada

Regional Manager

Coaching

Customer Service

Team Building

  School will soon be out for the summer, and many young families are opting to explore the beauty of their own country, travelling to top destinations like Toronto, Vancouver, and Halifax rather than heading south. While many travellers prioritize insurance for international trips, a recent CAA survey found that many people overlook the necessity of travel insurance for domestic travel, often assuming provincial healthcare will have them covered. 

"Exploring Canada’s breathtaking landscapes is an adventure worth taking, but unexpected travel hiccups don’t stop at the border,” says Susan Postma, regional manager, CAA Manitoba. “Whether it’s a sudden medical emergency or trip disruptions, having the right travel insurance ensures you can focus on making memories." 

A new national travel survey conducted for CAA reveals that nearly four in ten Canadians (39 per cent) travelled outside their home province without any form of travel insurance during their last trip. Some believed it was unnecessary (45 per cent), others worried about the cost (22 per cent), and 19 per cent took their chances, hoping nothing would go wrong. 

The reality? Provincial health insurance programs typically cover only basic emergency medical services when travelling in another province. 

“Many Canadians assume they’re fully protected when travelling within the country, but that’s simply not the case,” says Postma “A minor mishap can become a major expense, whether a broken ankle on a hike or a last-minute interruption.” 

Here are two unexpected ways travel insurance can help: 

You break your ankle while hiking on one of Canada’s beautiful nature trails and now need an ambulance or an airlift, crutches, and medication.    You’re on vacation but must return unexpectedly because someone at home gets seriously ill. In stressful situations, like when a family member falls ill, it helps to have support when you need it. Trip Cancellation Insurance would cover the flight change fee and help get you back home.   According to Orion Travel Insurance, part of the CAA family, the average medical claim cost has risen by 15 per cent annually since 2019, with everything from ear infections to air ambulance services becoming significantly more expensive. 

Here are ten additional tips to help your trip go smoothly, no matter where you travel. Know the cancellation policies and check limits or restrictions for everything you booked. Make sure you understand any key dates related to cancellations or changes. This includes accommodation, flights, car rentals, tours, and cruises. Check limits or restrictions on credit cards, employee benefits, and pensions to determine if you need additional travel insurance coverage.    Make sure all your documentation is in order before you book. It is recommended that passport renewals be completed six months before your planned trip. Your passport should still be valid six months after your travel date, as this is required in several countries.  There are varying documentation requirements, so make sure you fully understand what information you need to have ready and in what format.    Read up on Government of Canada travel advisories for your destination. Understand the risk level associated with travel to a particular destination by checking the Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories website. Individual travel advisories remain on a country-by-country basis. It is important that Ontarians/Manitobans understand the ongoing uncertainty associated with international travel.    Speak with your physician to discuss your travel plans. It is important that you speak to your physician to ensure you are up to date with needed travel vaccines and have them prescribe enough medication for the length of your trip. Ensure all the medication you take is packed in your carry-on and in its original bottles with labels intact.      Consider purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking your trip. To lock in the best protection, book your travel insurance at the same time you book your trip. Booking Trip Cancellation or Interruption insurance will give you peace of mind that you and your investment are protected. Insurance must be in place before things go wrong for you to benefit from coverage.     Get to the airport early. The old standby of being at the airport one hour before takeoff for domestic flights and two hours before international flights no longer apply. CAA recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before domestic flight departures and at least three for international flights.    Stay connected. It is important to have access to trusted, up-to-date information while travelling so you can monitor changing conditions and requirements and adapt accordingly. Bookmark the Global Affairs Canada website before departure and check it regularly while abroad. It is also a good idea to sign up for Registration of Canadians Abroad and stay in touch with a family or friend who knows your travel plans. Find these and more information at caamanitoba.com/travelwise  Note emergency contact numbers. Provide your travel agent with contact details while travelling abroad and keep all important phone numbers handy; this includes how to call for help and your travel insurance assistance phone number. It is also a good idea to keep a physical copy of all their reservation information and leave those details with a friend or family member.       Protect your ID. Ensure you have a digital and paper version of your Travel insurance wallet card, tickets to various events and attractions, and even your passport. You may also want to leave a copy of the necessary paperwork with family members or friends.    Pack your carry-on wisely. Include the most important items, such as your passport/ID, boarding pass, travel itinerary, wallet, phone, charger, medications, toiletries, glasses/contacts, noise-canceling headphones, book/e-reader, snacks, empty water bottle, travel pillow, change of clothes, sweater, socks, pen, and reusable bags, in your carry-on bag.    For more information on travel insurance and how to stay protected, visit caamanitoba.com/travelwise 

Based on the sample size of n=2,005 and with a confidence level of 95%, the margin of error for this research is +/- 2%.) 


media-release-provincial-trunk-highway-34-named-the-worst-road-in-manitoba

MEDIA RELEASE: Provincial Trunk Highway 34 Named the Worst Road in Manitoba

Manager, Government and Community Relations

Congestion Management

School Zone Safety

Road Safety

Government & Community Relations

Policy Advocacy

Road User Safety

  Manitobans have spoken – and the results are in. The 2025 CAA Worst Road is Provincial Trunk Highway 34 (PTH 34) in Central Plains/Pembina Valley, Manitoba. Frustrations with potholes, poor road maintenance, poor road signage and unpaved roads pushed PTH 34 to the number one spot. This marks this road’s sixth appearance on the CAA Worst Roads Top 10 list; however, this is the first time it has taken the top spot.

  
This year also marks a historic first for the CAA Worst Roads campaign – for the first time in its 14-year history, nine out of ten roads on the top 10 list are from rural Manitoba communities.  
Saskatchewan Avenue, the only Winnipeg road on the list in 2025, has appeared on the CAA Worst Roads list for the last seven consecutive years.

"The CAA Worst Roads campaign provides a powerful snapshot to governments on where to prioritize budgets and move up road repairs by giving Manitobans an opportunity to have their say on the difficulties they are experiencing in getting around," says Ewald Friesen, manager of government and community relations for CAA Manitoba, "We saw the proof of this when last year's winner, 18th Street in Brandon, received a swift and coordinated response from governments on the same day the results were released, with shovels in the ground by Fall.”

This year’s campaign saw an almost 50 per cent increase in roads nominated, with 723 different roads across 86 municipalities.

CAA research shows that 39 per cent of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with road work projects, stating that the roads don’t last long before they must be repaired again. However, 88 per cent are willing to put up with the inconvenience of construction in exchange for long-term improvements.

  
"Manitobans take to this campaign because they are hopeful for change,” says Friesen. “CAA’s annual campaign plays a critical role in highlighting the roads that need urgent attention, providing governments with a better understanding of where Manitobans want these investments made."

 
Half of the roads on the top 10 list are new this year. These include Provincial Road 234 in Interlake, Provincial Road 349 in Westman, Provincial Road 239 in Interlake, 26th Street in Brandon, and Provincial Trunk Highway 12 in Eastman.

Manitoba's Top 10 Worst Roads for 2025 1.	Provincial Trunk Highway 34, Central Plains/Pembina Valley
2.	Provincial Road 234, Interlake
3.	Provincial Road 307, Whiteshell
4.	Provincial Road 239, Interlake
5.	Provincial Road 349, Westman
6.	26th Street, Brandon
7.	Provincial Trunk Highway 12, Eastman
8.	Provincial Trunk Highway 26, Central Plains
9.	Richmond Avenue, Brandon
10.	Saskatchewan Avenue, Winnipeg

"CAA Manitoba urges all levels of government to prioritize road safety through predictable, year-over-year investment and timely repairs," adds Friesen. “CAA Manitoba will continue to advocate for Manitobans to drive positive change in communities across the province."

  
For more information and historical results, please visit: https://www.caamanitoba.com/advocacy/government-relations/worst-roads 

media-release-caa-manitoba-partners-with-the-rcmp-and-the-government-of-manitoba-to-remind-drivers-to-slow-down-and-move-over-on-the-road

MEDIA RELEASE: CAA Manitoba partners with the RCMP and the Government of Manitoba to remind drivers to slow down and move over on the road

  Today, on CAA’s National Slow Down, Move Over Day, the Government of Manitoba, the RCMP and CAA representatives came together at the Manitoba Legislature to remind motorists about the importance of Manitoba’s Slow Down, Move Over law (SDMO), a life-saving law designed to protect emergency responders and roadside workers.

“We are pleased that the Manitoba government has proclaimed May 13th as Slow Down Move Over Day to help bring awareness to the laws designed to protect emergency responders, tow operators, and highway workers who are stopped on the side of the road to save lives on Manitoba roadways,” said Ewald Friesen, manager of government relations for CAA Manitoba.

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Lisa Naylor stated, “Every day, workers risk their lives to keep our roads safe and we are asking Manitoba drivers to take one simple, life-saving action: slow down and move over.”

The timing is especially important as Canada Road Safety Week begins on May 13, shining a broader spotlight on making Canadian roads safer for all. CAA has been the leading advocate in Canada to ensure that 'Slow Down, Move Over' laws include tow trucks, along with police, ambulance and fire. 

"Most drivers tend to slow down and move over for police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks, but this is lower for tow trucks. It's important to always remember that for many, the side of the road is someone's workplace, and everyone deserves a safe place to work. Slow Down, Move Over laws protect our roadside rescuers, and the stranded drivers we serve every day,” reinforced Friesen.

CAA’s research shows that Manitobans care deeply about the safety of emergency vehicles, drivers and stranded motorists. Data also shows that 8 in ten CAA Members have heard of the Slow Down, Move Over law, and 99 per cent support it. Just over half, however, know the definition of the law, underscoring that there is still important work to do to help drivers understand exactly what the law requires a driver to do. Over 1/3 of members are not aware of specific penalties, though they do know a penalty exists and 4 in ten Manitobans aged 65 and above are unaware of any penalties.

Sergeant Mark Hume, Unit Commander, North West Traffic Services, Manitoba RCMP highlighted, “Violators can be charged under Section 109.1(2) of the Highway Traffic Act ($298 fine) at a minimum. Aggravated circumstances can result in more severe charges.” 
The consequences of neglecting these laws can be tragic, not only for roadside workers but also for drivers and passengers. The hope is that this initiative will help remind drivers of the importance of safe driving behaviours and encourage everyone to do their part to keep Manitoba’s roads and highways safe. 

“Through education and awareness of ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ laws, we wish to support drivers in their crucial role in preventing incidents and fostering a culture of care and safety on Manitoba's highways,” continued Friesen. 

If you see an emergency vehicle or tow operator up ahead, reduce your speed and move to an open lane if it is safe to do so. If the posted speed limit is less than 80 km/h you are required to slow down to 40 km/h. If the posted speed limit is 80 km/h or higher you are required to slow down to 60 km/h.

For more information about the Slow Down, Move Over law, visit: https://www.caamanitoba.com/advocacy/government-relations/slow-down The online survey was conducted by via an online quantitative survey with 916 CAA Members in Manitoba between February 3 and February 11, 2025. Based on the sample size of n=916 and with a confidence level of 95%, the margin of error for this research is +/- 3.24%.)  

media-release-caa-survey-finds-cannabisimpaired-driving-remains-a-concern-in-manitoba

MEDIA RELEASE: CAA survey finds cannabis-impaired driving remains a concern in Manitoba

  As 4/20 approaches, a survey conducted on behalf of CAA Manitoba reveals a trend: while most drivers in the province recognize the risks of cannabis-impaired driving, a significant number continue to drive after consuming cannabis—often in combination with other substances like alcohol or prescription medication. 

“Manitobans who decide to drive after consuming cannabis often underestimate the risks associated with this action,” said Ewald Friesen, manager, government relations, CAA Manitoba. “People still seem to believe that they have no alternative but to drive home or that the drive is short enough that it doesn’t matter. We are here to remind Manitobans that while cannabis use is legal and can be safely consumed, you should never do it before driving.”  

Forty-seven per cent of Manitoba drivers used cannabis in 2024; 36 per cent tried cannabis this year for the first time since legalization. Despite growing awareness of the risks, 18 per cent of Manitoba drivers admit to driving after using cannabis, with the majority doing so within just three hours of consumption.

 
 
Half of those surveyed are driving within three hours of consumption.  The survey also revealed that 53 per cent of recent cannabis-impaired drivers reported driving shortly after consumption, with 36 per cent feeling high while behind the wheel.  
 
Alarmingly, 79 per cent expressed confidence in their driving ability while impaired, though 71 per cent expressed concern about being caught.

 
“There is a common misconception on how cannabis affects drivers,” says Friesen, “however, it has been proven that cannabis use can impact a driver’s reaction time, judgement, coordination and decision-making.”  

Driving after consuming edibles has been a growing trend since last year.  While smoking remains the primary mode of cannabis use, the survey highlights a growing trend of driving after consuming edibles, which can have delayed and unpredictable effects. Solid edibles (67 per cent) and joints (61 per cent) are the most used formats, and more than half of cannabis users prefer edibles over any other format.

 
 
"Unlike other forms of cannabis, edibles often have delayed and unpredictable effects, which can significantly impair judgment and reaction times,” adds Friesen. “It is crucial for individuals to recognize these differences and prioritize safety, not only for themselves but for everyone sharing the road."

 
 
There is a disconnect between what people believe and how they behave when it comes to cannabis and driving.  Although 93 per cent of Manitoba drivers agree that cannabis-impaired driving is a serious road safety issue, many still view it as less dangerous than alcohol or prescription opioids. This disconnect between perception and behaviour underscores the need for continued education and enforcement.

 
 
The penalties for impaired driving are serious and can include: • 		Immediate 24-hour licence suspension (up to 60 days pending further testing) 
• Three-day vehicle impoundment 
• A $400 fine 
• Mandatory Impaired Driver Assessment 
• Additional administrative penalties, ignition interlock program requirements, and possible charges under the Criminal Code of Canada

 
 
CAA Manitoba encourages all motorists to make safe, informed choices: • Know the rules and understand how different cannabis products affect the body. 
• Don’t drive impaired—whether by cannabis, alcohol, or any combination of substances. 
• Plan ahead by arranging a rideshare, taxi, or designated driver, especially if planning to consume cannabis during upcoming events like 4/20.

 
 
The online survey was conducted by DIG Insights from July 5 to July 18, 2024, with 504 Manitoba drivers aged 19 and older. Based on the sample size of n=504 and with a confidence level of 95%, the margin of error for this research is +/- 3%.)     

media-release-nominate-now-the-annual-caa-worst-roads-campaign-kicks-off

MEDIA RELEASE: Nominate now: the annual CAA Worst Roads campaign kicks off

  The 14th annual CAA Worst Roads Campaign is live and  CAA Manitoba wants citizens to voice their concerns and nominate the roads they want to see fixed.  

“Our research shows that 96 per cent of Manitobans are concerned about the state of our roads,” says Ewald Friesen, manager government relations at CAA Manitoba, “the CAA Worst Roads campaign gives Manitobans a voice in highlighting the roads they believe are in need of repair which provides a valuable snapshot to decision-makers.” 

A recent survey conducted by CAA Manitoba found that more than half of respondents have experienced vehicle damage because of poor roads. Eighty per cent paying out of pocket to repair them – up ten per cent from last year, only five per cent filing a claim with MPI - down 11 per cent from 2024. Eight per cent of Manitobans forwent repairs altogether.  

According to the survey, poor road conditions, especially potholes and sunken sewer grates, are causing significant vehicle damage and increasing out-of-pocket repair costs for drivers.  

 
“Many Manitobans are experiencing the effects of the rise in the cost of living, including having to delay vehicle repairs. This makes investing in our roads and infrastructure more crucial than ever,” says Friesen. “We understand that consumers are being cautious with their spending, and many choose to keep their cars longer instead of purchasing new ones and stretching an already strained family budget." 

 
The damage caused to a vehicle by hitting a pothole can cost anywhere from $300 to $6,000, depending on the make and model of the car. The survey found that almost half of respondents paid between $500 to $1,999 to repair their vehicle, with an average cost of $882. 

 
“CAA Worst Roads campaign is a platform that gives Manitobans an opportunity to speak up and helps the different levels of government understand what roads are pain points for their constituents,” says Friesen. “We know the campaign works because we see governments prioritize budgets and move up road repairs every year after appearing on the CAA Worst Roads list,” adds Friesen. “This includes last year’s winner, 18th Street in Brandon, where we saw a swift, coordinated response between the municipality and the province.”  
 

Manitobans can nominate any road for issues ranging from congestion, potholes, poor road signs and the timing of traffic lights to pedestrian and cycling safety.  
 

“Nearly 60 per cent of those who have ever participated in the campaign believe that nominating a road could result in the repair of it,” shares Friesen, “CAA Manitoba is calling on all road users to nominate the roads they believe need attention to help make our roads safer and show decision-makers what roadway improvements are important to Manitobans.” 

 
Nominations for the Worst Roads campaign can be submitted online at www.caaworstroads.com starting March 18 until April 11. Once the nominations are collected, CAA Manitoba will compile a list of the top 10 worst roads in the province, which will be announced to the public. 
 

CAA conducted an online survey with 1,014 CAA Manitoba Members between January 6 to 14, 2025. Based on the sample size and the confidence level (95 per cent), the margin of error for this study was +/-3 per cent.   

media-release-are-you-ready-for-winter-driving-caa-manitoba-shares-winter-weather-readiness-tips

MEDIA RELEASE: Are you Ready for Winter Driving? CAA Manitoba shares winter weather readiness tips

Manager, External Communications

Road Trips

Travel and Tourism

Winter Driving

Strategic Communications

  As the cold weather begins to roll in, CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) is encouraging Manitobans to prepare themselves and their vehicles accordingly for the winter season.

  
“All too often, motorists wait until the first snowfall before preparing their vehicles for winter driving,” says Nadia Matos, manager, external communications for CAA Manitoba. “Now is the time to get your winter tires on and check that your car battery will last the winter months. Even a fully charged battery can lose power when the temperature dips below 0° Celsius.”

CAA Manitoba has compiled a list of winter readiness tips for Manitobans to help them prepare for the winter season. • Install winter tires for better traction – On cold and snowy roads winter tires can help reduce your breaking distance by up to 25 per cent. Members can call CAA before Nov. 30 to have our mobile tire service change them for you at home for a fee.
•	Test your car battery - If necessary, replace it before it fails. Even a fully charged battery can lose up to 30 per cent charge in temperatures below zero. CAA Manitoba will test Members’ batteries free of cost during a service call. 
•	Ensure you have an emergency car kit – Your kit should have water, non-perishable food, jumper cables, blankets, a flashlight, batteries, waterproof matches, candles, and cat litter to help create traction under your tires. Add extra mitts, hats, socks and footwear to your emergency kit. 
•	Have your brakes checked - If you’ve noticed any change in the feel of your brakes, or if they’re squealing or grinding, it may be time to have them serviced. With black ice and unpredictable weather, having good brakes can mean the difference between stopping and sliding.
•	Check your block heater- When you park– is your outdoor plug drawing power? Is your extension cord working with no missing prongs or exposed wires? 
•	Check your lighting system - Make sure all your interior and exterior lights are working. For safe driving, ensure your headlights are aimed correctly.
•	Top up your fluids - Keep extra fluid in your trunk. Make sure it’s rated for -40ºC. Don’t let your gas drop below half full. 
•	Inspect your wiper blade – Check the condition of your blades if you notice streaking on the windshield. Check for fraying or cracking and remove worn wiper blades and replace them with new ones.
•	Ensure you have the appropriate winter tools - Keep an ice scraper, small shovel and snow brush handy in your car at all times.

 
While it’s important to make sure your vehicle is ready to go, it’s also important for drivers and passengers to be prepared in case of an emergency or if you are stranded.

 
Some additional ways to be prepared include: Have a cell phone battery bank and keep it on you, as well as a charging cable that connects your phone to your vehicle.

 
•	Download and register for the CAA app and keep your CAA membership card in your wallet or vehicle so you always know how to contact CAA Manitoba if you are stranded. 
•	Check Manitoba 511.ca for road conditions and closures if you head into a rural area.
•	Always tell your loved ones where you plan to go and what your route is before leaving on a longer trip in your vehicle.

“Member safety is always our top priority at CAA Manitoba,” says Matos. “There’s no better time than the present to ensure you, your loved ones and your vehicle are ready to drive safely this winter season.”

For more information about driving safely in winter conditions, please visit our Safe Winter Driving page at caamanitoba.com.



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