Spring has officially sprung! After months of cold, snow and floods, it's no surprise that Canadians are eager to hit the open road, but while you may be in a rush to get your adventure started, it's important to remember to be mindful when behind the wheel.
Canada Safety Council offers some useful tips on how to stay safe while letting your hair down on the road this spring and summer!
Stay Calm Behind the Wheel
- Plan ahead. Allow yourself enough travel time so that you are not in a rush.
- Observe and obey the speed limit. Obeying the speed limit will ensure proper traffic flow.
- Identify alternate routes. Try to find routes that will enable you to avoid traffic congestion on busier roads.
- Just be late. Being late for work or an appointment is better than endangering your life or the life of someone else.
- Keep the kids content. With young children, take regular stops and bring plenty of items to keep them occupied.
- Don't let traffic congestion get to you. Keep in mind that traffic congestion is often a regular part of driving and is best handled with a calm attitude.
Stay Alert, Stay Sober
- Eliminate distractions. Put the cellphone in your trunk if you need to, so that you aren’t tempted to text and drive.
- Sleep. Make sure you get enough sleep before your drive.
- Pull over. If you're feeling tired while driving, pull over to a safe place and take a nap or perhaps spend the night in a hotel.
- Be cautious. If you suspect someone else is driving drowsy on the road, keep alert, drive courteously and don't get angry.
Protect Yourself from Aggressive Drivers
- Don't take it personally. Be polite, even if the other driver is not. If another driver challenges you, take a deep breath and move out of the way.
- Keep your eyes on the road. Don't provoke an aggressive driver further by making negative eye contact or gesturing. Show them they can't distract you from driving safely.
- Always be a courteous driver. Set an example for other drivers by always being courteous and driving defensively.
- Take all safety measures possible. Make sure everyone is properly buckled up.
Take Action! You Can Prevent Aggressive Driving
- Report incidents of aggressive driving. If your safety, or the safety of someone around you, is being threatened by an aggressive driver, contact the police.
- Set an example for younger passengers. Children are keenly observant. Educating them at an early age through your actions will teach them the importance of being courteous.