10 Of The Most Important Tips To Keep You Safe This May Long Week End

It's been a long winter, which makes May long week-end sweeter: a time of getting the cottage opened up and readied for summer, or just taking a trip up north with your family.

But remember...you're not the only one with such a brilliant idea, especially during May 2/4. There will be an influx of drivers on the road, which will increase the risk of vehicle collision. 

There have been many reports over past May long week-ends of collisions and fatalities along roads that could have been avoided. With such a higher volume of traffic, and increased risk on the roads, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) urges motorists to drive with caution and consider the following road safety tips as a guide:

1. Never drink and drive. If you have had a drink, make sure you have a designated driver. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver's reaction time, which makes collisions much more likely.

2. Avoid driver distractions, such as talking and texting on hand-held phones. According to a recent study, 75% to 80% of all motor vehicle collisions are a result of driver distractions.

3. Ensure proper use of seat belts, booster seats, and child seats.
If you're expecting driver fatigue, pull off the road to a safe spot and have a nap. Driving drowsy can be just as fatal as driving sober.

4. Obey all rules of the road, respect posted speed limits, rights of other drivers, and drive according to road conditions.

5. Share the road. Be cautious of cyclists, motorcycles and pedestrians. Always be on the lookout for vulnerable road users, even if they don't have right of way.

6. Night driving doesn't have to be intimidating: If you drive carefully and use your headlights properly, you shouldn't have a problem reaching your destination.

7. Check your car for any tire damage, under inflated or over-inflated tires, depth of tire tread; as well as properly working brakes, and wiper fluid top-up.

8. Before you tow a trailer or haul a load, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped for the job.

9. If you see a wild animal on or near the road, brake firmly but don't swerve. Honk horn in a series of short bursts to frighten animal away.

10. Take all safety precautions when boating, which means understanding the weather, water conditions, and having enough lifejackets for each passenger, and refrain from any and all alcohol consumption. Boating safety is key to keeping you and your family and friends safe while enjoying the great lakes.