When on the Road, Keep Safety in Mind!

Do you work within the Community Service, Hospitality or Service Industry? Are you required to drive for your day-to-day tasks?  Have you identified driving to be one of your top hazards? Whether you are driving within the city limits or out on the highway, driving safely should never be overlooked. In 2022 there were 141 claims related to Transportation Accidents within the S21, S22, and S23 rate codes, costing our industry members $990,128.

Below are some useful tips to help keep yourself and others safe while on the road!

Safe Driving on the Highway!

• Plan your route. Check weather and road conditions, take emergency supplies, and share your route with people expecting your arrival.

• Understand the vehicle. Every vehicle is different. Adjust the mirrors and seat and get familiar with the features BEFORE driving.

• Always observe highway speed limits. If you pass an emergency vehicle or enter a construction zone, the speed limit is 60 km (unless otherwise posted). Keep in mind that small towns along the highway also reduce speed!

• Stay out of the “No Zone,” otherwise known as blind spots. This road area is outside the driver’s field of vision and cannot be seen through mirrors, and the taller and longer the vehicle, the bigger the blind spot!

• Turn on your turning signal well in advance before changing lanes. Always shoulder check! Your mirror is only one tool to use when switching lanes to see your blind spot.

• Keep a safe distance between you and other vehicles. Use the 3-second travel distance from your front end and their back end! The distance is farther away at higher speeds. If vehicles are pulled over on the side of the road, safely switch to the next lane over.

• Avoid sudden steering and maintain control of your vehicle. This applies in both summer and winter months.

• The left lane is for passing. Do not travel in this lane for long.

• Utilize passing lanes on single-lane highways. Waiting for this extra lane is the safest way to ensure you have enough time to pass vehicles and does not put you in harm’s way of oncoming traffic.

• Cruise control should only be used in safe conditions. Avoid using cruise control if there are weather conditions that can reduce traction (rain, snow, ice), if you are driving in heavy traffic or in stop-and-go situations if you are driving on winding roads or hills or if you are tired or drowsy.

• Avoid distracted driving. This is the number one cause of vehicle accidents and includes texting, eating, playing with the Bluetooth screen, and other activities that take your focus from driving.

• Take regular breaks! Get out and stretch and never drive while tired.

• Always wear your seatbelt! Ensure passengers and packages are secure.  

   

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Safe Driving in the City!

• Always observe city street speed limits. If you pass an emergency vehicle or go through a school zone, the speed limit is 30 km.

• Keep a safe distance between you and other vehicles. Use the 3-second travel distance from your front end and their back end!

• Pedestrians share the road. Always be on the lookout for those walking or biking and be especially mindful in school zones or playground areas.

• Cruise Control should only be used in safe conditions. Using cruise control in city limits is impractical due to the constant stop-and-go nature and heavy traffic.

• Avoid distracted driving. This includes texting, eating, playing with the Bluetooth screen, and other activities that take your focus away from driving.

• Always wear your seatbelt! Ensure passengers and packages are secure.

Wherever you go, safety should be your top priority! For assistance, or if you have any questions or comments, please Get in Touch with Service Hospitality.