Month: May 2025

Defensive driving is always great for many reasons, not just insurance! Here are just a few of the reasons why you should give defensive driving a chance:

1. Increased Safety

• Helps prevent collisions by anticipating potential hazards.
• Encourages scanning the road ahead, checking mirrors, and being prepared for others’ mistakes.

2. Lower Insurance Costs

• Many insurers offer discounts for completing defensive driving courses.
• A clean driving record (fewer accidents and tickets) also keeps premiums lower.

3. Reduced Vehicle Wear and Tear

• Smooth braking and acceleration prevent unnecessary strain on your car’s engine, brakes, and tires.
• This can lead to fewer repairs and longer vehicle life.

4. Fewer Traffic Violations

• Defensive drivers are less likely to speed, run red lights, or make risky lane changes.
• This helps avoid fines, points on your license, and license suspensions.

5. Reduced Stress Behind the Wheel

• Being prepared and alert helps you stay calm and make better decisions.
• You’ll feel more in control and less reactive to aggressive or erratic drivers.

The 3-Second Rule (Normal Conditions):

• Pick a fixed point (like a sign or tree).

• When the vehicle in front passes it, count: “One-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three.”

• If you reach the same point before you finish counting, you’re too close.

• This gives you enough time to react and brake safely in ideal conditions.

Increase to 4-6 Seconds:

• In poor weather (rain, snow, ice)

• At night

• On gravel or wet roads

• When driving behind large vehicles that block your view

Braking Distance (More Precise):

Here’s a rough idea of how much space is needed to stop, based on speed:

Manitoba Public Insurance will offer a condensed version of its high school driver education program this summer because of high demand.

Condensed Driver Z Program Details:

• Reason: High demand for driver education.

• Duration: Reduced from 12 weeks to 5 weeks.

• Format:

  • 2 weeks of virtual classes

  • 3 weeks of in-car lessons

Does the course’s shortened length due to demand affect the students? The course is now under half of what it usually is, seemingly making it more demanding. Is it beneficial if three months’ worth of lessons are compacted into just over a month?

Here are the most common summer driving issues—and how to stay safe:

1. Overheated Engines

What Happens: High temperatures, especially in stop-and-go traffic, can cause your engine to overheat.

Prevention Tips:

• Check coolant levels regularly and top off if needed.
• Keep an eye on your temperature gauge.
• If overheating, turn off the A/C and pull over safely.

2. Tire Blowouts

What Happens: Hot pavement increases air pressure in tires, which can lead to blowouts—especially if the tires are worn or underinflated.

Prevention Tips:

• Check tire pressure regularly (including the spare).
• Inspect for cracks, bulges, or worn tread.
• Avoid driving on very hot pavement at high speeds for long durations when possible.

3. Dehydration and Driver Fatigue

What Happens: Heat can lead to dehydration, drowsiness, and slower reaction times behind the wheel.

Prevention Tips:

• Drink plenty of water, especially on long trips.
• Take breaks every 2 hours to rest and cool off.
• Avoid driving during the hottest part of the day (usually mid-afternoon).

4. Increased Traffic

What Happens: Summer means more road trips, construction projects, and tourist traffic, all of which can cause congestion and aggressive driving.

Prevention Tips:

• Use traffic apps to plan your route and avoid delays.
• Stay patient and don’t rush—leave early if needed.
• Watch out for out-of-town drivers who may be unfamiliar with local roads.

5. More Teen Drivers and Vacationers

What Happens: Schools are out, which means more inexperienced drivers and rental cars on the road.

Prevention Tips:

• Be extra cautious near high schools, beaches, or vacation hotspots.
• Drive defensively and expect unpredictable behavior.
• Give other drivers plenty of space.

6. Glare and Sun Exposure

What Happens: Sun glare can reduce visibility, while prolonged exposure can cause discomfort or even sunburn through your windshield.

Prevention Tips:

• Wear polarized sunglasses while driving.
• Use your sun visor strategically.
• Apply sunscreen if you’re driving for long periods in direct sunlight.

7. More Motorcycles, Bicycles, and Pedestrians

What Happens: Summer weather brings out more people on two wheels or on foot, which increases the risk of collisions.

Prevention Tips:

• Check blind spots carefully before changing lanes.
• Slow down near crosswalks and bike lanes.
• Give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing.

Summer is also the best time for teens to practice driving and take driving lessons because they now have so much free time. As always, have a fun and safe summer, and be cautious on the roads!