Hockey season is in full swing this time of year and that means parents may find themselves with a few extra passengers in the car. Whether you’re driving a van full of kids to an overnight tournament or just chauffering a carload to the community arena, the increase in passengers also means an increase in possible distractions.
To make sure that you and all of your passengers arrive in time to get suited up for the puck drop, Allstate Insurance Company of Canada offers the following safe driving tips to avoid distractions while carpooling:
- Get lots of rest prior to tournaments or late games – being tired slows reaction times
- Be aware of road conditions and drive appropriately
- Program your GPS or bring directions, checking the map before you get in the car
- For long car rides, arrange to have activites for passengers to keep them occupied
- Be sure bulky equipement isn’t blocking your rear window or blind spots
- Make all vechicle adjustments such as the radio or climate controls before you leave the driveway
- Make sure all passengers are wearing their seatbelts properly
- Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel at all times
- Take rest stop breaks regularly to avoid last second requests or roadside stops
You should also check your insurance policy to be certain you have the appropriate coverage before offering to carpool.
For more information on distraction and safe driving tips or to arrange an interview with Saskia Matheson, Allstate’s official spokesperson, please contact:
Karen Nussbaum
Thornley Fallis Communications
(416) 515-7517, ext. 334 / (647) 294-3321
nussbaum@thornleyfallis.com
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