When it comes to car safety, having Calgary auto insurance is the first step. Not only is insurance legally mandated, but it’s also the smart and responsible way to protect yourself, your family, and other drivers from the financial consequences of auto accidents. However, simply having insurance is not enough. By having modern car safety features and driving with safety as your top priority, you’ll lower the risk of injury or serious damage in the event of an accident, and you may even lower your Calgary auto insurance rate. For details about how you can find the most beneficial insurance policy for you, consider talking with a licensed professional.
Here are some tips that will enhance your safety and help reduce the financial burden on you and your Calgary auto insurance company.
1. Hands-free phone devices: A growing number of North American provinces, states, and municipalities are making it illegal to drive while talking on a cell phone. Although no such law has yet taken effect in Alberta, it’s still a good idea to avoid talking while driving and to keep your attention focused on the road. However, if your fast-paced life demands that you sometimes talk on the phone while driving, use a hands-free device that allows you to keep full control over your vehicle
2. Airbags: Because there’s not much protection on the sides of most vehicles, side-impact collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents. Side-impact airbags help absorb the impact of the collision, engaging instantly to cushion the blow to the driver or the passenger. There are two levels of side-impact airbags—those that protect the torso, and those that are installed above the doors to protect the individual from the shoulder up. Safety features such as these can actually help lower your Calgary auto insurance rates.
3. Good safety ratings: Whenever you’re in the market for a new car, check the safety ratings for all vehicles you’re considering. Consult the Transport Canada website or the site of the U.S.-based National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for safety ratings for all the vehicles on the market. You can also call your Calgary auto insurance company and find out if there are any vehicles they recommend for safety.
4. Antilock Braking System (or ABS): Having an antilock braking system prevents your wheels from sliding on slippery surfaces, and it helps you maintain control when you have to brake suddenly. If you have a vehicle with an ABS, it’s important to understand how it works. Otherwise, you may not even be aware when the system kicks in.
5. Frequent check-ups: Most drivers know that it’s important to have your oil changed and your tires rotated every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, but it’s also a good idea to have a trusted mechanic check all your car’s systems at least every six months or so.
6. Classroom refresher: For many adults, it’s been decades since we’ve had a driver’s safety course, and after years of routine driving it’s easy to forget the specific details of the best safety practices. By taking driver’s safety classes for adults, you can refresh yourself on all those basic safety details and maybe even learn some new pointers. These classes may also get you a discount on your Calgary auto insurance.
