Courtesy feels good - You should try it!
Road Courtesy Month, which takes place every year from May 1 to 31, is an information and awareness campaign whose goal is to remind people that numerous accidents involving injuries could be avoided if users respected the basic rule of the Highway Safety Code and learned to share the road network, while being more respectful and courteous of and to each other.
Courtesy feels good and it makes a difference
How good is your road etiquette?
For car drivers
Did you know that one third of road accidents are rear-end collisions and that they cause one third of the injuries? Imagine the distance that your car travels in two seconds; you should keep at least this distance between yourself and the car ahead. What should you do if someone is following you too closely? Slow down gradually and safely to prompt them to pass you.
Trucks are long and high and when you travel behind them, their drivers can't see you...particularly if you are following too closely. To keep a safe distance between you and the truck, make sure that you can see one of its side mirrors.
When you're driving, you may make a wrong move. If you do, make a gesture of apology; you'll reduce the risk of conflict. And when someone makes a manoeuvre that is potentially harmful to you? Don't blame him or her for making the mistake, but keep your cool and keep your attention on the road.
For pedestrians
Do you wonder who has the right-of-way on the road? It isn't the strongest law! The pedestrian has the right-of-way at traffic lights and at pedestrian crosswalks, as well as at intersections when the light is green. He or she should cross at these points. Otherwise, the right-of-way goes to cyclists and car drivers.
Pedestrians, pedestrian crosswalks are for you! They are defined by the yellow bands on the ground and indicated by a sign. These crosswalks give you the right-of-way when you're crossing the street. Car and truck drivers and cyclists must allow you to pass. But be careful: make sure that they've seen you before you cross!
For cyclists
When you're cycling, signal what you intend to do. Before a turn or lane change, motion with your hand to give the information to those behind you. They will try to work with you.
For passengers
Be aware that when you're a passenger, your attitude has a great deal of influence on the person behind the wheel! If you remain calm, the driver will be more relaxed. When traffic is heavy or when the road conditions are difficult, avoid raising contentious subjects. Even though you're not behind the wheel, you have a role to play.
