March 9, 2020 @ 8:32 AM

Question:

This month it’s not so much a question but rather a reminder of some rules we may be forgetting based on what I see out on the roads as an instructor.

Answer:

  1. School and playground zones:  If the sign has a 30 km/h speed limit restriction underneath, you MUST GO 30 km/h or slower.  Just because you don’t see children as you enter the speed zone doesn’t mean they aren’t close by, so be sure to obey the speed limit!  Remember that children and their parents may be focused on other things and not paying attention to traffic – slow down below 30 km/h when kids are out!
  2. “L” drivers:  If you see a car with an “L” on the back, it indicates that the driver is a learner and just starting to drive.  Be patient and give them extra space – driving is a challenging skill to learn and takes time to master so be patient and kind to learners!
  3. Rainy weather:  Take extra care on rainy days!  Make sure you have your headlights on, even during daylight, as this will help make you more visible to other drivers.  Remember to slow down and that the speed limit is the MAXIMUM you should be travelling under ideal conditions, so on wet roads you need to slow down!! 
  4. Obey stop signs:  When you get to a stop sign – STOP!  Don’t roll or rush through the stop sign, assuming you are the only one at the intersection.  Come to a full stop before proceeding when you are sure that it is safe.
  5. Watch your speed:  Many drivers today are driving way too fast!!  We all have a lot to do and are often tight on time, but speeding is never the answer!  Slow down and stay safe, it is better to be a few minutes late than to be in an accident!!
  6. Use your indicators:  The only way you can tell other drivers on the road what you intend to do is by using your indicators. Be sure to regularly check your indicator lights to ensure they are working and be sure to always use your indicator when changing lanes or turning. 
  7. Take your time at traffic lights.  Don’t be quick to go when the light turns green – SCAN the intersection first to ensure it is safe to go.  If the light turns yellow and it is safe to do so, STOP!  There is no need to rush at lights, take your time and stay safe.

Mistakes happen but we can all work together to ensure everyone arrives home safely at the end of the day!!

Slow down, be patient, and stay alert so we can all arrive home safely!