6 Safe Driving Resolutions

In addition to making the typical New Year’s resolutions, you might also want to consider making some driving resolutions. Adopting safe driving habits will help keep you and your passengers safe. Last year, many people drove less because of the pandemic. If you’re one of these people, were you able to maintain your good driving habits? Read the tips below to check, and use them to make some New Year’s driving resolutions.

1. Do not drive distracted

Distracted driving is not only dangerous, but also illegal. In some instances, it can include automatic suspension of a driver’s license and hefty fines. Avoid being a part of the distracted driving epidemic by cutting out any distracted driving habits such as using your smartphone in the car, eating while driving, and fiddling with the sound system.

2. Do not drive impaired

Similar to distracted driving, do not get behind the wheel if you are impaired from drinking or drugs. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada, every day, on average, up to four Canadians are killed in alcohol and/or drug-related motor vehicle crashes on public roads involving at least one “principal highway vehicle.” It is extremely dangerous for yourself and other drivers on the road to drive impaired. To help avoid the risks of impaired driving, assign a family member or friend to be a designated driver for the night.

3. Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists

When driving, it’s important to pay attention to your surroundings and make note of your blind spots. Pedestrians can potentially dash onto the road or be distracted on their phones while crossing the street. Be sure to yield and be visible to them. Look out for cyclists and provide ample room for them on the road.

4. Continue to maintain your vehicle

During the year, be sure to continue to perform routine maintenance on your vehicle. This can be done by looking at tire pressure, checking car fluid levels, checking the oil, checking the car battery and getting a regular tune-up. If you continue to look after your vehicle, it will run smoothly and can help reduce the risk of costly repairs in the future.

5. Watch your speed

To help keep safe on the roads, it’s essential to obey the speed limit. Driving too fast or too slow can be hazardous to yourself and other drivers. Be extra cautious of your speed when driving through school zones and inclement weather conditions.

6. Update vehicle emergency kit as needed

Along with maintaining your vehicle, it’s also a good idea to continue to update your vehicle emergency kit as needed. Depending on the season, you may need to switch out a few items. Some constant items to have at all times in your vehicle include: bottled water, non-perishable food items, first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, road flares, whistle and spare chargers. Being prepared with the right equipment can ease stress and provide help in a tough situation.