It’s The First Long Weekend of the Summer Season

Though it’s technically still spring for another month, the May 24 long weekend is the official start of the summer season. Even though the weather may not always cooperate, it’s a chance for Canadians to get rid of the winter blues. Motorists will be packing their belongings and heading out to visit family, open cottages and haul boats to be placed in the water. Drivers and passengers will fill vehicles will gear to make the most of the three-day holiday weekend. The roads will be exceptionally busy and congested with drivers becoming easily frustrated. This year, the Victoria Day long weekend also coincides with the Canadian Safety Council’s National Road Safety Week. Young Drivers of Canada would like to remind motorists that frustration and road rage can lead to collisions resulting in injury or death. We’ve put together some long weekend driving tips to help you out this coming weekend:

May Long Weekend Driving Tips

1. Make time allowances for long weekend traffic. With more drivers on the road, traffic will be moving slower than usual. Plan to take your time to deal with the road traffic. There is no point in getting angry for not getting to your destination at a certain time. After all, it’s a long weekend; you will get there!

2. Avoid aggressive driving. Avoid sudden stops and starts. Such driving behaviour causes stress for you and the surrounding drivers. Some of those drivers may not be paying attention and can run into you if you brake suddenly.

3. Avoid sudden lane changes; you won’t get there any faster. Traffic flow won’t be any different in another lane if you are travelling in traffic. Drivers around you may react to your sudden actions and create a hazard of their own.

4. Leave space. Tailgating will only lead to a collision. Space allows you to react to a sudden situation and avoid a potential collision.

5. Ensure that your load is well secured. Trailers or other items that you will be towing behind your vehicle should have proper brake lights to alert others when you’re slowing down. Keep an eye on your towed cargo with trailer tow mirrors. All trailers should be in good working order when towing items.

6. Plan ahead. Check your route and determine the best way to get where you’re going. Apps like Waze or Google Maps can help you know the expected length of your drive before you even leave. The spring and summer months are notorious for road construction and maintenance. Check ahead of time to view delays and avoid running behind.

The most important of all long weekend driving tips is to avoid driver distractions. Don’t text or talk while driving, it’s against the law and can lead to a collision or death. Avoid using in-car technology while driving, including the GPS or radio. If you need to use technology, have your passengers do it for you.

Young Drivers of Canada would like to wish all Canadians a safe and collision free May 24 long weekend!