For most of us, we would be lost without our car. Whether it is getting to work, running errands, taking the kids to soccer practice, or travelling on vacation, we spend a lot of time behind the wheel. However, the longer we are behind the wheel, the chances of us getting into an accident go up too. Fortunately, many of the causes of car accidents can be prevented by following driver safety tips. Yes, safe driving can help us avoid being included in the 160,000 car accidents that happen in Canada each year. For that reason, we have put together some of the best driving safety tips that will ensure your safety on the road.
1. Make Car Maintenance a Habit
An understandable feeling of doom sets in when the lights on our dashboard flash. More often than not, that means an expensive visit to the mechanic is on the way.
However, ensuring your car’s parts are working before you hit the road is essential to avoid a breakdown at the worst time.
Checking the oil, breaks, lights, windscreen wiper fluid, and tire pressure should all be part of your regular routine, especially before a long journey.
Making sure to change your winter tires when the cold weather hits can also help to reduce your chances of an accident and improve your car’s ability to navigate icy roads.
2. Learn to Drive Defensively
What is defensive driving? It may sound like a sports tactic, but it means driving in a way that puts your safety first.
Some simple principles include driving while maintaining a 2-4 second distance from the car in front, depending on the weather, and being vigilant to potential dangers far ahead of you.
Being proactive rather than reactive will help to keep you safe driving.
3. Respect Emergency Vehicles
A situation that drivers often forget is how to act when an emergency vehicle is 7on the road. Remember to follow the Slow Down, Move Over law when you see emergency and maintenance vehicles with flashing red, blue or amber lights that are stopped on the side of the road. Reducing your speed and changing lanes provides a safer distance for tow truck drivers and emergency responders to work safely.
4. Don't Become a Speedster
Speed limits are there for a reason and are very often reflective of the type of road you are on. Pushing your car beyond the speed limit on what may seem like a clear road could leave you with little time to react to any bends or local variables such as animals or crossings.
Sometimes we can feel pressured to speed up because of the car behind us.
If so resist the urge to do so. If you are at the right speed then pull into a slower lane or pull over when safe. Your safety on the road simply isn't worth compromising.
5. Drowsy Driving Is Dangerous
None of us would ever consider getting behind the wheel if intoxicated.
However, when we take into account that 21% of all car accidents in Canada are connected to drowsy drivers, it is clear that driving while fatigued should be taken just as seriously.
The reality is that tiredness has the same effect on our reaction times as drugs or alcohol.
So even if you are a little bit sleepy don't take any chances. One of the best driving safety tips is to be well-rested beforehand and if you are not let someone else take the wheel.
Call Professional Towing Company for Roadside Assistance
We hope our driving safety tips are a helpful reminder for a safe driving experience. There are, however, times when no matter how well we drive we may find ourselves needing roadside assistance. Scrap King Auto Wrecking & Towing is available 24/7 for emergency towing and roadside assistance throughout the Kootenays. Call us now for towing service.