The Canada Day long weekend is coming up, and with this beautiful weather, everyone is already planning their fun activities and getaway trips. While it is exciting to embark on your next journey, please keep in mind that accidents are more likely to occur during long weekends.
In order to ensure your own safety as well as protect others on the road, here are a few steps you need to take.
- Stay focused
According to Ontario Provincial Police,
distracted driving is the number one cause of deaths in the province. Distractions include eating, reading, texting, or even using the GPS for directions. This weekend, make sure you stay focused on the road and only use hands-free devices such as speakers, Bluetooth headsets and mobile stands; or ask your passenger for assistance. You never know what could happen in a millisecond of being distracted.
- Buckle up
Whether you are driving or cycling, it is critical that you protect yourself with preventative measures. Seat belts and helmets
do save lives, only if they are used. If you have small children, this will also set an example for them to always travel safe when they get older.
- Drive sober
This cannot be stressed enough. On average,
four Canadians are killed every day in accidents that involve alcohol and drugs. Once you are under the influence, do not get behind the wheel. If you think someone is about to drive intoxicated, stop them. Call them an Uber or a taxi. Drive them home. Call their family. Do the best within your ability to prevent these regrettable accidents from happening.
- Pay attention to your surroundings
There are always blind spots when you are driving. It is important that you always stay alert and pay attention to your surroundings. Drivers in Ontario share the road with pedestrians and cyclists, who are more vulnerable to serious injuries should an accident occur. Furthermore, there is an animal collision peak in the months of June and July. Therefore, all motorists need to be aware of those around them to avoid crashes.
- Beware of construction areas
The Trans-Canada highways are often undergoing construction. Accidents tend to happen in construction zones because drivers don't notice the change soon enough, or they don't adapt to it properly. Make sure you comply with the speed limit, keep an eye out for construction sites and follow posted signage. That way, you will lower the risk of collision.
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