Helping Canadians drive more safely
As a leading Canadian insurer, we make it our business to understand the risks of the road. This page will provide information to help you understand how to prevent injuries and death.
Drug impaired driving
Like other forms of impairment (alcohol, fatigue, distraction, etc.), drug impaired driving is an increasing concern that drivers must be aware of. It’s important for Canadians to stay alert, stay focused and be aware of the risks while on the road.
Pedestrian and cyclists
When it comes to road safety, drivers, cyclists and pedestrians need to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings.
Pedestrians should avoid jaywalking or texting while crossing an intersection and cyclists should wear a helmet and respect the rules of the road.
For more information:
Wildlife collisions
Vehicle collisions with animals on and near roadways often result in death or serious injuries.
Here are a few tips:
- Don’t swerve to avoid animals, except in certain situations with moose, because swerving could cause you to lose control and hit another vehicle or road hazard.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and continually scan the environment. Remain especially attentive on roads near wooded areas, rivers, lakes and streams.
- Drive defensively. Other drivers may not know how to react properly to wildlife on the road and could swerve into you.
- Watch for flickering lights from other vehicles. This may indicate there is an animal crossing the road between the other vehicle and you.
- Ask passengers to watch for wildlife.
- Do not rely on roadside fencing to protect you. Some animals can jump over or crawl under fences.
For more information:
Distracted driving
Texting while driving increases your risk of causing an accident. Stay focused on the road and avoid using your electronic devices while behind the wheel, even at a red light.
Road rage
Aggressive driving is an unfortunately all-too-common occurrence and poses a serious threat to the safety of drivers. Here are some tips to help you avoid provoking the ire of an aggressive driver:
- Avoid tailgating. A good rule of thumb is to allow three seconds after someone passes an object before you do. If someone is tailgating you, safely pull over and let them pass.
- Ignore curses or rude gestures. As hard as it can be, "being the better person" can help you avoid an ugly confrontation.
- Don't block the turning lane. When pulling up to a red light, make sure you're not in a right-turn-only lane that allows drivers to turn right on red.
- Park in one space. And inside the lines too. You run the risk of provoking an angry driver if you take up multiple spots.
- Don't stop in the middle of the road. If you see a friend walking or driving, safely pull over to the side to talk. Don't make people wait behind you.
- Allow cars to pass. It's not a race. If other drivers want to pass you, let them.
- Stay away from erratic drivers. If you see someone driving aggressively, remain at a safe distance and call the police.
Speeding
Speeding is dangerous and limits are put in place to mitigate risks and save lives. Many collisions occur as a result of speeding so it’s important to pay attention to posted speed limits.