Canada Safety Council's annual awareness campaign focuses on behaviours that put drivers, passengers and other road users most at risk.
With the long weekend fast approaching, drivers are encouraged to slow down and take care when getting to where you want to go. Because like you, many people will be on the road to take advantage of the unofficial start to summer.
- Related Read: Five Bad Driving Traits That Could Cost You
While Toronto police will be on the lookout for impaired driving, failing to wear (or improperly using) a seatbelt, distracted driving and aggressive driving, police forces all across Canada will be keeping an eye on drivers this week as part of National Road Safety Week.
- Related Read: Distracted Driving Laws In Canada
Canada Safety Council's campaign this year focuses on ensuring the safety of vulnerable road users like cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians—people who you often share the road with but are less protected if involved in a collision.
Safe Driving Reminders
- Don't drive distracted. Focus on the task at hand, not the radio, passengers, text or call.
For more information on distracted driving, visit distractedtodeath.com. - Keep an eye out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, especially around intersections or when turning.
- Do a shoulder check before opening your car door to make sure there are no cyclists or motorcyclists nearby.
- Be patient, calm and courteous. There will be more traffic on the roads this weekend, and more people out and about enjoying the long weekend.
- Obey the speed limit.
- Leave lots of space between you and the bicyclist or motorcyclist ahead of you; they can usually stop quicker leaving you less time to react if you're crowding them.
- If you're passing a bicyclist, slow down and give them a bubble of at least one metre worth of space; if there isn't enough room to give them this space while passing stay back and wait until you can pass them safely. If possible, change lanes—it's the best option.
- Watch for children playing near playgrounds, residential areas, school zones, and recreation centres.
Whether you're taking a road trip this weekend to head up to the cottage or staying local, drive carefully and everyone will have a great long weekend.
