Top 10 Tips for a safe holiday season on the roads

Toronto, ON (Dec. 10, 2014) – This holiday season, Insurance Bureau of Canada is providing Canadians with some important safe driving tips.

“This time of year the roads can be slippery and busier than usual,” said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. “IBC wants to help make sure everyone’s holiday season is safe and enjoyable.”

“Being prepared for winter roads and paying extra attention during this festive time of year could help ensure the safety of you and everyone on the road,” added Ralph Palumbo, Vice-President, Ontario, IBC.

Top 10 Tips

IBC’s top 10 tips for a safe holiday season on the roads are as follows:

  1. Attending a festive holiday party? Don’t drink and drive.
  2. Last-minute holiday shopping? Leave presents and parcels out of sight in your car.
  3. Dreaming of sugar plums behind the wheel? Distractions come in many forms. Avoid them.
  4. The holidays can be tiring! Be sure you are well rested. If you are tired, pull off the road to a safe spot and nap.
  5. Bringing cheer to relatives? Be careful when you drive at night.
  6. Stormy weather? Drive according to the road conditions and prepare yourself with our helpful tips.
  7. Love a warm car? Never leave it unattended to heat up.
  8. Reindeer running about? Know what to do when you see an animal on or near the road.
  9. Tune up your sleigh. Make sure your vehicle is tuned up and ready for winter’s worst.
  10. Safety first. Follow the regulations in your province and ensure proper use of seat belts, child car seats, and booster seats at all times.

“If you get a new mobile device this holiday season, do not use it while driving,” Palumbo advises. “Distracted driving is increasingly the cause of accidents. Avoiding distractions while driving could save a life.”

About Insurance Bureau of Canada

Since 1964, IBC has been working with governments across Canada to make our communities safer, championing issues that directly affect Canadians and the property and casualty (P&C) insurance industry. IBC is the national industry association representing Canada’s private home, car and business insurers.

SOURCE: Insurance Bureau of Canada