During the holiday season, it seems as if everything speeds up. Mundane tasks like getting groceries, filling up your vehicle with gas, trying to find that perfect throw pillow at Urban Barn. Okay, maybe that last one was just me, nevertheless, the stores and traffic gets a little chaotic during this time of year.
When we travel during this time, we need to make sure we are prepared for the types of scenarios that can occur. Accidents may occur without any fault of our own and cannot be avoided completely. However, there are things we can do to make sure we practice safe driving to avoid as many as possible.
Weather
We live in Canada, so we should know by now that weather patterns change frequently and without warning. We can have -35 degrees and a blizzard, one day, and then the next day can be -2 and raining.
How do we prepare for this? Well the main thing you can do, is go and install winter tires on your vehicle. The softer, more flexible rubber that winter tires are constructed of allow more control on cold icy roads. This flexibility is something all-season tires lose in cold conditions.
Another thing you can do is make sure all your headlights, brake lights, fog lights and signal lights are operational. During these snow storms, we need all the visibility we can get. Please make sure you can see, and that others can see you.
Distracted Driving & Impairment
Despite the penalties involved, cell phones still seem to make their way into many peoples hands while they are driving. No matter how good a driver you are, these light brights will distract you from driving and can cause a potential accident. Put the phone down or pull over if you have to use it.
The holidays are busy and there are many parties to attend. Make sure you plan for a safe drive home if you plan on drinking. You are not only putting the people in your car at risk, but innocent families on the road as well.
Proper Insurance Coverage
An insurance policy may not prevent an accident from happening, but it can sure help you if you end up having one. In Saskatchewan, your base insurance on your registration includes 200,000 liability coverage and a 700 deductible for damages to your vehicle. This is basic coverage. While it does provide coverage for most scenarios, we recommend looking into a package policy, even if it is for only additional liability coverage. Many people don’t realize that if they injure someone severely, that those people can sue for additional income if they are a high income earner. As well, if the property damage associated to the accident is greater than 200,000; you will be responsible for the additional damages. Example, you derail a train with your F350. This claim could be in the millions, and your coverage will run out at 200,000. For as little as $3 a month, please consider increasing your liability coverage. For more information please read our auto pak blog, visit our online equote page or feel free to contact us.
We want to make sure you have a safe holiday season, full of love and laughter. Please take care of yourself and your family. Hopefully some of these tips help you out and as always, if you need anything, please give us a call. We are here to serve you.