We've been lucky so far - but winter will soon arrive and SGI wants drivers to be prepared.
"That first snowfall always seems to throw drivers for a loop," said Andrew Cartmell, President and CEO of SGI. "We tend to see collisions spike that first day as drivers adjust to the winter roads. They forget they need to slow down and take their time. Just remember - better late than never."
That's why safe winter driving is the traffic safety spotlight for the month of November. Police across the province will be on the lookout for people driving too fast for road conditions. Drivers can avoid collisions if they follow these winter driving safety tips:
Slow down. Posted speed limits are for ideal driving conditions. Adjust your speed accordingly when conditions are less than favourable, like when roads are icy or there is low visibility.
Clear snow from your vehicle, paying particular attention to your headlights and tail lights, and be sure all your windows are completely defrosted before you drive.
Consider installing winter tires if you haven't already. SGI recommends the use of winter tires as they provide improved traction on winter road surfaces.
Leave more distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, so you have more time to stop.
Give yourself extra time to get to your destination so you're not tempted to drive too fast for road conditions.
If you do have to travel, check the weather forecast and the Highway Hotline before you go and pack an emergency travel kit.
"It's common sense, but if you can make habits out of these simple tips, you will help keep you, your loved ones and other road users safe," said Cartmell. "Traffic safety is everyone's responsibility."
From November 2012 to March 2013* there were 2,191 collisions in Saskatchewan where driving too fast for road conditions was a contributing factor. Those collisions resulted in 1,082 injuries and nine deaths.
Visit SGI's website at www.sgi.sk.ca for more information about winter driving. Tweet your winter driving tips with other drivers using #wecandrivebetter.
