5 safe driving habits

1. Go easy on the gas pedal

By respecting speed limits you’re not only avoiding a ticket and demerit points, but you’re also doing your part to help make the roads safer.

2. Give yourself time

Give yourself enough time to get where you’re going—you won’t have to worry about arriving late and there will be less temptation to exceed the limit. When you can avoid rushing, there’s less risk of an accident and you’ll burn less gas.

3. Keep a safe distance

From other cars

Be aware of the other cars on the road. Always keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This gives you more time to react, so you won’t have to brake suddenly.

From heavy vehicles

Heavy vehicles have longer braking distances and wider blind spots than passenger vehicles. If there’s a heavy vehicle behind you, put your turn signal on well in advance and leave extra space for the driver to brake safely.

4. Slow down to turn

Always respect the speed displayed on the road signs when taking a turn. This will reduce the risk of losing control of your vehicle.

5. Yield to pedestrians

Look out for crosswalks and stay alert when approaching an intersection. Remember to show some courtesy to pedestrians who need to cross the road.

Crosswalks

Stop as soon as you see a pedestrian step into a crosswalk or if they look like they’re about to cross. For example, they could be waiting on the sidewalk in front of the crosswalk, waving in your direction or making eye contact with you.

Intersections

Stop your vehicle before the stop line and give priority to pedestrians. Note that pedestrians have the right of way at intersections where a right turn on a red light is permitted.

Good habits can help you save

Car insurers often reward safe drivers by offering discounts and lower premiums, as well as user-based insurance programs.

If you do have an accident – file a claim

If you’re insured with us, you can file your auto claim online at any time or call us at 1-855-209-9549 to speak to a claims advisor.

For more on this topic, visit:

Distracted driving

How many of these safe driving tips do you follow?