Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Use caution this holiday weekend
From 2003-2007, 26 Manitobans died in collisions during summertime long weekends, including Victoria Day. Another 1,214 were injured in accidents on those weekends, according to Manitoba Public Insurance statistics.
Fatigue, heavy traffic and too much sun can lead to poor decisions by those who normally drive responsibly. And when so many more vehicles are on the road, speeding and impaired driving become even larger problems..
Be patient
“If you can’t avoid the busiest periods, resign yourself to the long lineups,” says Lou. “Don’t be one of those drivers who jumps out of line to try to move up a space or two. A lot of head-on collisions are the result of impatience overcoming common sense.”
Don’t drink and drive
Remember that the sun can magnify the effects of alcohol. Even one drink is too many before driving.
“Alcohol is a depressant, and if you’re driving home late you are probably already tired,” says Lou Gervino, Driver Education Manager at Manitoba Public Insurance. “Fatigue and alcohol make a dangerous cocktail when you’re driving.”
Keep these tips in mind to have a safe long weekend, and don’t forget to buckle up!
For more information, check out our website and watch The 60-Second Driver on CTV.
