The Top 10 - Road Safety Tips

Here are 10 ways to help make Alberta's roads safer.

1. Buckle up! It's the law.
   • Buckle up with a properly fastened seat belt no matter how short the journey.
   • Protect children travelling in your vehicle. Use child safety seats according to manufacturer's instructions.
   • Make sure teenagers buckle up.
2. Keep your hands on the wheel
   • Keep your mind on the task at hand. Pull over to talk if you are using a cellular phone. Driving isn't the time to be shaving, putting on make-up, or eating your lunch.
3. Stay alert
   • Check traffic in all directions before entering an intersection.
   • Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists and children playing.
4. Obey the speed limit
   • Slow down when road and weather conditions are poor.
5. Give yourself a space cushion
   • Leave space around your vehicle so you have room to stop or maneuver in an emergency.
6. Always check your blind spot
   • Look in your mirrors and shoulder check before you change lanes.
   • Be aware of other drivers blind spots. Can they see you?
7. Yield the right-of-way
   • If in doubt, let the other driver go first.
8. Reduce your risks
   • Practise courtesy at all times. Share the road. Don't cut people off or make sudden lane changes.
   • Obey traffic control devices. A stop sign means come to a complete STOP.
   • Be cautious when approaching intersections.
   • A yellow light means clear the intersection - NOT try to beat the light.
   • Make yourself visible. Day or night, always turn your headlights on, use your running lights, and make sure your tail lights are working..
   • Use your signal lights so others on the road know what you're going to do.
   • Don't follow too close.
9. Make the smart choice -- Drive alert
   • Alcohol, medication, fatigue or stress affect your driving. Drive only when you are fully alert.
10. Have your vehicle serviced regularly
    • A well-maintained vehicle is a safe vehicle.