Are you wondering how you can stay safer on the roads? You’re not alone. There are 160,000 car accidents in Canada each year, and it’s wise to consider how to avoid being in one.
There’s a lot you can do as you drive to stay safer. Here are six tips that will help you avoid being in a car accident as you’re driving this year.
Keep a Safe Distance Behind Other Cars
To avoid motor vehicle accidents, it’s important to have enough space that you can react if something unexpected happens. This means being at least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you.
You’ll want to have even more space if you’re driving a larger or heavier vehicle, or if the weather is bad. In the rain, snow, or icy weather, it’s especially important to have the ability to react to a sudden event.
You never know when the car in front of you will brake suddenly, slide, or have mechanical issues. Stay safely behind them!
Don’t Get Distracted
Distracted driving is a major problem in Canada. Drivers will look at their cell phones, eat in the car, or even apply makeup or shave while driving. All of these activities take their attention from the road and create unsafe conditions.
It only takes a few seconds for an accident to happen, so don’t tell yourself that “you’ll just look quickly.” That’s enough time for a serious crash.
If You’re Tired or Under the Influence, Don’t Drive
Everyone knows the dangers of drinking and driving, but driving tired can be just as hazardous. Just like when you’re under the influence, your reaction time is slower and it’s hard to see. Worst of all, you can fall asleep at the wheel.
If you’re not in a good condition to drive, don’t! Call a cab or rideshare service so that you can get where you need to go safely.
Make Sure Your Tires Are in Good Condition
Tires that have low tread or leaks can make driving dangerous. You might have a hard time turning a corner, or you could lose control of your car while driving. If you’re driving on the interstate, the risk is even higher.
Visit roundaroundtire.com to make an appointment to have your tires inspected and repaired if needed. Having new tires with appropriate tread is essential to driving safely.
Drive Strategically Based on Those Around You
You might think that the responsibility for not having a car accident rests with those around you, but the truth is that your actions can prevent collisions even if others are irresponsible.
Focus on driving defensively, and keep an eye on how others are behaving. Is a car driving erratically? Give them more space or go around them if you can. If you notice a car is having mechanical problems, change to another lane to avoid them.
The more you do to prevent accidents, the safer your travels will be.
Perform Routine Car Maintenance
Mechanical problems can cause your car to slow down suddenly, stop, or even become difficult to steer. You’ll want to take care to make sure your car is in top shape to prevent car accidents.
For instance, you can find a high-quality transmission shop in Pickering to review your engine and make sure you don’t need repairs. Get oil changes regularly and service your brakes and other car parts as well.
When your car is in great shape, you’ll be much safer on the road.
Stay Safe While Driving!
When you follow the tips in this article, along with obeying the laws of the road when it comes to speed, seat belts, and more, you’ll be a far safer driver.
Driving is a privilege, make the most of it!