Safe driving requires action

Anyone who drives or even travels as a passenger in a car knows the anecdotal truth: it’s crazy out there on the road. Drivers are more aggressive, inattentive, and downright rude than ever before.

A recent poll conducted by an auto insurance company shows the fear is widespread. A full 70% of Canadians are "extremely concerned" about driving safety, according to the DirectProtect Personal Safety Index.

We should be concerned. Statistics show that:

• 44% of Canada’s population (representing over 13 million Canadians) have had a motor vehicle accident
• 38% have filed an insurance claim
• Almost 50% have received a ticket.

Yet in the face of this public safety threat, 44% of drivers have done nothing to improve their driving skills.

More Canadian drivers in the 55 years of age and older bracket have re-read the rules or taken
more driving education than other age groups. This reflected in another statistic:

• Canadian drivers 35 to 54 years old were most likely than other ages to have had an accident, filed a claim, or received a ticket.

If you’re among those who haven’t taken a hard look at their driving for a couple of decades, consider the following suggestions:

• Re-read the Driver’s Handbook every two years.
• Take refresher-driving lessons or an advanced driver’s course specifically designed for previously licensed drivers. Many driving schools offer these lessons at reasonable rates.
• Slow down — almost one quarter of all fatal accidents in Ontario last year were due to speed.
• Drive in the right-hand lane, unless you’re passing.
• Don’t tailgate.
• Don’t drive when tired.
• Pay attention to your fellow road users – pedestrians, cyclists, and
  school buses

It is available at driving schools throughout Canada, and only involves a couple of evenings in a classroom. Skills I learned in the course many years ago have helped me avoid numerous accidents ever since. With the driving conditions we now face, it’s a course I can recommend.