Latest news with #safeDriving
CTV News
13-07-2025
- CTV News
Essex County OPP preparing for week-long safe driving campaign for trucks
Members of the Essex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are preparing for a week-long campaign. Essex County OPP will be taking part in the annual province-wide traffic safety initiative called 'Operation Safe Driver'. The campaign will run from Sunday, July 13 until Saturday, July 19. In conjunction with the Ministry of Transportation, Essex County OPP officers will be patrolling local roadways to promote safe driving practices that impact commercial motor vehicle (CMV) traffic, such as trucks. Police will be patrolling to look for infractions such as speeding, distracted driving, weight restrictions, pre-trip inspections, among more. OPP are warning those who operate a CMV or own a CMV being operated on the roadways to ensure the drivers are following all laws related to Ontario highways to keep the roadways safe and to avoid potential fines. Residents and travellers can expect to see an increased police presence on the roadways during this campaign. — Meagan Delaurier/AM800 News
Daily Mail
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
Ignoring this crucial driving rule could make you over 12% more likely to crash
Are you guilty of ignoring a vital piece of safe driving guidance and annoying fellow drivers at the same time? A third of motorists have now admitted to ignoring or being unaware of the two-second gap rule, a new study has found. A prominent Highway Code rule, driving with a two second gap to the vehicle in front is the standard practice to maintain a safe following distance as this ensures adequate time to react to a sudden stop or changes in traffic. But a poll of more than 12,500 drivers by AA Accident Assist has found that a quarter of motorists ignore the two-second instruction. Similarly, one in 20 claimed they were unaware of the guidance set out in the Highway Code, putting themselves and other road users at greater risk of accidents by tailgating. A new survey from AA Accident Assist has found that a third of drivers ignore or are unaware of the two-second gap rule between cars. one in eight casualties on England's roads are caused by tailgating Highways England data shows that one in eight casualties on England's major routes are caused by drivers tailgating. Many people consider tailgating one of the most annoying behaviours displayed by other road users, but that doesn't stop people from experiencing it far too frequently. And it doesn't prevent tragic accidents from happening as a result of tailgating. Official statistics from the Department for Transport confirm that it remains an ongoing problem: Last year a quarter of drivers were observed leaving a gap of less than two seconds in free-flow traffic. Driving too close to the vehicle in front is also costing drivers a lot of money in repairs. In 2024, 58 per cent of repairs carried out by the AA Accident Assist required a new bumper unit. And as cars become more advanced with increased technology in their bumpers – from parking sensors to cruise control radar systems – it takes more time to repair and calibrate the car after a collision, costing drivers even more. Tailgaters also waste money the more they brake and speed up, losing cash hand over fist on fuel inefficiency, as well as jeopardising their insurance premiums. Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said: 'It seems driver behaviour towards tailgating remains unmoved, with it being an all too regular experience on the roads. Regardless of motorways or local streets, drivers feel intimidated by others following too close behind.' He goes on to recommend: 'By allowing at least a two-second gap between yourself and the car in front, you significantly reduce the risk of crashing into that vehicle. 'Similarly, if you are being tailgated, where safe to do so, pull over and let them pass. It is better to cut them loose rather than feel frustrated and try to slow them down.' How many accidents does tailgating cause? More than 100 people are killed or seriously injured every year in accidents caused by tailgating motorists. The Highways England research also indicates that over 4,000 tailgating-related crashes occur annually, leading to more than 6,000 injuries. As a result, the Highways England launched a campaign called 'Don't Be A Space Invader', using the classic arcade game to warn motorists about not leaving enough space. Fronted by former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell, it raises awareness of the dangers and help stamp out the issue. Mansell said: 'Tailgating is a driving habit I utterly deplore. Not only is it aggressive and intimidating, but it can lead to a crash with a tragic outcome.'
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Memorial Day Weekend begins the ‘100 deadliest days of the year' for drivers
GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of Summer, but it also begins the '100 deadliest days of the year' for drivers. According to NCDOT, in 2023 the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekend saw over 6,700 car crashes and 47 deaths. That includes over 2,000 crashes and 17 deaths on Memorial Day Weekend alone. These Summer Holiday deaths accounted for almost 35% of all vehicle deaths in 2023. Officials with the Department of Transportation and local law enforcement urge drivers to take it slow, drive with patience, and do not get behind the wheel if you have had anything to drink. For more information on safe driving tips during this time of year, check out Driving Tips for Memorial Day Weekend or click on the video above. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
NHSP share summer safety tips for drivers, boaters Summer season begins
Memorial Day weekend unofficially kicks off the summer season, and New Hampshire State police are reminding all residents and visitors to stay safe. Traffic volumes increase on the state's scenic highways and waterways in warmer weather. Troopers encourage everyone to follow safe driving practices, like buckling up and complying with speed limits. Anyone traveling with children should also ensure car seats are properly installed and used. Marine Patrol Officers are reminding everyone enjoying the Granite State's beautiful lakes, ponds, and rivers to practice basic boating safety: always wear a life jacket – it's the law for children under 13 – and check water temperatures before boating or swimming. Boaters should also dress appropriately, file a float plan, and carry a marine radio or cell phone in a waterproof case in the event their watercraft becomes disabled or if they need help. NHSP is recommending the following: Avoid impairment. If consuming alcohol, designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service. Don't drive if medication impairs perception or motor skills. Avoid distractions. Drivers should keep their hands on the wheel, their eyes on the road, and their phone in the console. Let someone else choose the music – just keep the volume low enough to hear outside warnings. Avoid aggressive operation. Comply with speed limits to perceive, react to, and avoid hazards. Maintain safe distances between other vehicles or boats. Look carefully for oncoming traffic before merging or turning. Adjust for conditions. Heavy rain can reduce visibility and cause ponding on roadways. Drivers should always operate for conditions and reduce speed to avoid hydroplaning. On the water, high winds can create rough waters, and boaters should decrease speed to prevent capsizing. By adhering to these tips, drivers and boaters can help prevent injuries and deaths across the state. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
CBC
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- CBC
Road safety groups advise drivers to be cautious ahead of Victoria Day long weekend
The Victoria Day long weekend means hitting the road for many. But road safety groups are asking drivers in B.C. to exercise caution. As CBC's Tanushi Bhatnagar reports, several organizations are giving tips on safe driving etiquette during the holidays.
