2011 feature articles

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It's Canada Road Safety Week - take care out there

May 17, 2011

May 17-23 is National Road Safety Week, and it's no coincidence it coincides with the first long weekend of the summer.

Long weekends mean more traffic on Saskatchewan highways, which can lead to a greater chance of a collision. In fact, you're almost twice as likely to be in a serious collision if you're travelling on a holiday weekend in Saskatchewan than at any other time of year.

Last year there were over 224 collisions over the Victoria Day long weekend, resulting in 60 injuries and 3 fatalities.

Reduce your chances of being involved in a collision by following these tips:

• Be patient in getting to your weekend destinations. The highways will be crowded with recreational vehicles and people hauling trailers or boats to the many lakes and campsites around the province.
• Watch for slow-moving farm implements on the road since seeding or other farming operations may be underway in some parts of the province.
• Avoid distractions in the vehicle while driving. Remember the use of hand-held cellphones is illegal while driving unless operated with a hands free device.
• Check your vehicle's tire pressure. Tires are your only contact with the road and without properly inflated tires your vehicle won't accelerate, brake or steer properly. Also make sure your vehicle is mechanically sound and fluid levels are topped up.
• Travel at a speed appropriate for the current road conditions.
• Wear a seatbelt on every trip. Also, make sure all passengers are wearing seatbelts and all children are properly fastened in belts or child safety restraints.
• Allow enough travel time on longer trips and take frequent breaks to avoiding driving while fatigued.

Most importantly, don't drink and drive. Research shows that drivers are more likely to be involved in an alcohol-related collision while travelling on a long weekend than during any other time of the year.

If you do decide to have a few drinks during the long weekend, always plan a safe ride home. Use a designated driver, call a designated driving service, a taxi or a friend to get home safely.

Take care out there.