Driving is an essential part of our everyday lives, whether it is commuting to work, running errands, or traveling for leisure. However, driving can also be dangerous, and road accidents can have devastating consequences. Car accidents are a driver’s worst nightmare especially on highways that are dangerously congested and crashes at high speeds are inevitable. In 2020 alone, 1,745 people died on Canadian roads. The fact is that many of the crashes experienced on the highways are preventable. In this article, we’ll share a few tips that could help prevent you from being involved in or falling victim to a serious injury or fatal car crash–arriving at your destination safely.
But before we get to that, let’s understand the concept of defensive driving, which is the most practical way to arrive at your destination safely whether driving in the day, night, or during rainfall.
What is defensive driving?
Defensive driving is a set of driving skills and techniques that help drivers to anticipate potential hazards and avoid accidents. It involves being aware of other drivers, road conditions, and potential hazards, and making adjustments to driving behavior accordingly. Defensive driving can help reduce the risk of accidents and keep drivers and passengers safe.
Why you should always activate defensive driving mode
Driving is more than moving from one place to another; it is all about responsibility. It involves protecting your life and the lives of others around you. As the number of vehicles on the road increases, it is crucial for drivers to value both the road and each other. Consider the occupants of the car ahead of you as if they were your own family. Everyone has the same objective when driving, which is to arrive safely at their destination and reunite with their loved ones. So each time you get behind the wheel, drive defensively. This isn’t a button that you press in your cars; it is a driving mode that you get to activate in your mind.
Safety tips to keep in mind that will get you home safely
1. Avoiding distractions
Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents. About 47% of Canadian drivers admit to texting or sending voice messages while driving. In order to get to that destination safely, avoid using your phone while driving, and do not engage in other distracting activities such as eating or applying makeup. Keep your focus on the road and be aware of your surroundings. Today, there are new regulations in place that prohibit the use of devices while operating a vehicle with penalties ranging from fines, to demerit points in Canada. It is therefore recommended to utilize hands-free devices for making phone calls and navigating your way. Staying informed about these laws will help you prioritize your focus on the road, reducing the risk of accidents and legal consequences.
2. Safe driving practice & keeping to speed limits
50.5% of the victims of car crashes where the driver’s speeding contributed to 25.3% of fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2020. Keeping to speed limits puts you in control of your car and surroundings – interacting safely with pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists is a sign of responsible driving. Yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks, maintaining a safe distance from cyclists, and using extra caution around motorcyclists. Creating a culture of respect and coexistence contributes to a safer road environment.
Canadian road signs provide essential information and guidance. From speed limits to warnings about possible hazards, understanding these signs ensures you’re complying with regulations and making informed decisions while driving.
3. Wearing your seatbelt
One of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe while driving is to wear your seatbelt. Over 33% of driver fatalities were reported in 2020 to not wearing seat belts. Seat Belts can reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident. Make sure that you and your passengers are always buckled up before you start driving.
4. Avoid driving under the influence
Operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol poses a significant threat to both the driver and other individuals on the road. Never drive while impaired, and never get into a vehicle with someone who is impaired. If you plan on drinking, make sure that you have a designated driver or plan on using public transportation.
5. Always be prepared for challenging conditions
Rain and fog reduce visibility and grip thereby increasing the risk of accidents. Maintaining a safe speed, increasing distance, using windshield wipers and defoggers appropriately, avoiding sudden maneuvers and using low-beam headlights in foggy conditions to help other drivers see you are ways you can overcome such challenging conditions.
Driving at night is another challenging instance that requires heightened awareness. Reducing your speed to allow for longer stopping distances using high-beam headlights in areas with no oncoming traffic, keeping your windshield clean to avoid glare from oncoming headlights and staying vigilant for pedestrians and wildlife can reduce road accidents.
6. Maintain your vehicle
Regular maintenance of your vehicle can help prevent accidents. Make sure that your brakes, tires, and lights are all in good working condition. Keep your windshield clean and replace worn out wiper blades. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to break down or malfunction on the road.
Regular vehicle maintenance is one of the basics of safe driving. Brake systems, oil gauge, lights, signals, and steering mechanisms should be routinely inspected. A well-maintained vehicle responds predictably and reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns or accidents due to mechanical failure.
Staying safe on the road requires attention to detail and a commitment to following basic guidelines. By wearing your seatbelt, following traffic rules, staying focused on the road, maintaining your vehicle, driving defensively, being prepared for emergencies, and avoiding driving under the influence, you can help prevent accidents and arrive at your destination safely. Drive safe!
