The biggest auto risks facing drivers on holiday weekends

As Canadians look to enjoy the first long weekend of summer, ingenie reminds drivers of the risks inherent in long-distance travel and how many can be prevented.

Risk Management News

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Holiday weekends typically see an 18% increase in fatal collisions, according to a recent study analyzing five years of driving data in Alberta. 
 
While many Canadians believe alcohol is behind these auto accidents, research actually indicates that drunk driving crashes are more prevalent on regular weekends than three-day ones. In reality, many factors are at fault for the rise in fatalities, and young drivers are particularly susceptible.
 
“It’s exciting for young drivers to have the freedom to drive their friends up to the cottage,” said Loir Phair, CEO of ingenie Canada, an auto insurer geared for the age 16-24 demographic. “Taking some precautions and giving their full attention to the road ensures everyone arrives safely.”
 
Some of the biggest risks, and ways in which they can be mitigated, include:
  • Playing DJ. 75% of young drivers become distracted by switching songs in the car. Motorists should create a playlist in advance, eliminating the need to adjust the console or connected mobile device.
  • Using mobile phones. Smartphones are a universal diversion, and 60% of young motorists keep theirs either in a cup holder or on the front passenger seat. Since it can be difficult to ignore text messages and other alerts, Phair recommends keeping phones out of sight or in airplane mode.
  • Eating at the wheel. 58% of 16 to 24 year-olds admit that eating on the go impairs their driving ability, so pulling over and eating at a service station is encouraged.
  • Acting as Magellan. 54% of youthful drivers use phone navigation while driving, but it’s almost always safer to delegate this task to passengers.
  • Driving while sleepy. Since almost 20% of fatal collisions in Canada involve fatigue, drivers should always get a good’s night sleep before long trips and take regular breaks for fresh air.
Although two-thirds of young motorists reported that the top deterrent for distracted driving would be involvement in a collision, insurance leaders hope that facilitating a dialogue will contribute to better driving behaviors. Any interested parties can join the conversation with the hashtag #dontdrivedistracted.
 

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