CONTENT
When you're in the car, put your phone out of reach. A place where you won't even be tempted to look for it. No phone. No texting.
Reaching for a phone, dialing or texting increases the risk of getting into a crash by three times.
Turn those notifications off. The less you hear your phone, the less tempted you'll be to respond while you're driving.
Texting is only one form of distracted driving. Reaching for the radio, adjusting your GPS, or looking back at your kids can also be dangerous.
Always watch at least 12 seconds down the road and ensure you have an escape route ready. You should always be able to safely pull over to a shoulder, median, or other lane except for when passing another vehicle.
If you are behind a vehicle with an unsecured load, keep your distance and stay aware until it is safe to pass or fall back to a safe distance.
Avoid distractions when driving on highways or routes where road debris is likely, such as major trans-national freeways.
Winterize your vehicles. This should include an examination of the spare tire, battery, belts, hoses, anti-freeze, tires, brakes, heater, defroster and windshield wipers.
When travelling on snowy roads, try driving outside of the previous tire tracks for extra traction. This also helps when there are shiny ruts in the road.
In winter conditions, never use cruise control and always travel at the top half of your gas tank.
Scan the road and ditches ahead for animals, especially when travelling at dawn or dusk.
Slow down if an animal is on or near the road and be prepared to stop, as their behavior is unpredictable.
Remember: an animal that has crossed the road can turn back in the vehicle's path.
It's illegal to exceed the speed limit to pass a vehicle. Be patient. Check your speed.
Speed limits are for ideal conditions. Unless it's top down weather, go slow and don't let other drivers pressure you to speed up.
Avoid surprises. Before you head out, check the road reports and plan more time to get to your destination.
Tailgating causes collisions. Leave more space between you and the vehicle in front on slippery wet or winter roads.
Before you drive, check that your headlights and taillights are working properly and clean.
Dusk is the hardest time of the day to drive because your eyes are constantly adjusting to the growing darkness. When in doubt, turn your lights on so other drivers can see you.
Remember: the distance you can see ahead and to the side is severely reduced at night. This means you will take longer to see hazards on the road or along the roadside.
Highways 63 and 881 have been the scene of hundreds of injuries and dozens of fatalities in recent years. These tragedies point to the need for change. That's where the Coalition for a Safer 63 & 881 comes in.
And where you can help.
Although our sponsors come from diverse sectors, we all come together for one important mission—making Highways 63 and 881 safer for all.
Join our fight to save lives on two of Alberta’s deadliest highways.
The information contained in this interactive data visualization is intended for general purposes only. The information was obtained through a variety of public sources and while we endeavor to ensure that it is correct and up-to-date, we cannot guarantee its accuracy. Any reliance you place on the information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
If you have information you'd like to contribute to this project, please contact us.