5 Top Ways To Avoid An Accident
Defensive Driving: Tips and Statistics for Canadian Roads
Defensive driving is about being prepared for any scenario, protecting yourself and others by minimizing the risk of accidents, and being ready for potential hazards. In Canada, road safety is a critical concern, with statistics showing that a significant number of accidents could be prevented with defensive driving practices. Here are five important tips for driving defensively, along with relevant Canadian statistics to highlight their importance.
1. Put Safety First
Always leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you; this will give you more time to react. Lock your doors and wear your seatbelt to protect you from being thrown from the car in a crash. Don’t drive aggressively, as it puts you in a stronger position to deal with other people’s bad driving.
According to Transport Canada, approximately 27% of fatalities and 16% of serious injuries in vehicle collisions in 2020 involved a lack of seatbelt use. By wearing your seatbelt and maintaining a safe distance, you significantly increase your chances of avoiding injury.
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2. Always Be Aware of Surroundings
Keep an eye on pedestrians, cyclists, and pets along the road. Check mirrors frequently so you know what’s going on around you at all times. If a vehicle is showing signs of aggressive driving, slow down or pull over to avoid it.
In 2020, there were over 7,000 collisions involving pedestrians, with 15% resulting in fatalities. Being aware of your surroundings can help prevent such accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
3. Do Not Depend on Other Drivers
Be considerate of others, but look out for yourself. Plan your movements anticipating the worst-case scenario. For instance, don’t assume another driver is going to move out of the way or allow you to merge. Assume that drivers will run through red lights or stop signs and be prepared to react.
Data shows that driver error is a leading cause of accidents, with “failure to yield right-of-way” being a significant contributor. In 2020, it was responsible for 20% of intersection collisions. By not depending on other drivers, you can better prepare for unexpected actions.
4. Keep Your Speed Down
Higher speeds make controlling your vehicle much more difficult if things go wrong. Posted speed limits apply to ideal conditions. To maintain control of your vehicle, you must control your speed.
Speeding is a factor in nearly 25% of fatal crashes. In 2020, there were 540 speed-related fatalities on Canadian roads. Keeping your speed down is crucial for maintaining control and reducing the severity of potential accidents.
5. Eliminate Distractions
A distraction is any activity that diverts your attention from the task of driving. Driving deserves your full attention. Stay focused only on the driving task.
Distracted driving is a growing concern, with estimates suggesting that it contributes to 21% of fatal crashes in Canada. This translates to over 400 deaths annually that could be prevented by eliminating distractions while driving.
Defensive driving is essential for ensuring safety on the roads. By following these tips, you can protect yourself and others from unnecessary harm. The statistics underscore the importance of these practices in reducing accidents and fatalities. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and always drive defensively.
By implementing these defensive driving tips, you contribute to making Canadian roads safer for everyone. Remember, driving defensively is not just about following rules but anticipating and preparing for the unexpected on the road.
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