Last Long Weekend of the Summer!

Everyone loves to celebrate this long weekend. The last brouhaha, the last camping trip, the last summer weekend at the cottage! Three whole days back to back of leisure. Plans are made, tickets are bought and cars are loaded; this weekend is one of the busiest road trip weekends of the year.

There are a few things you can count on this long weekend, other than having a great time – heavy traffic and a strong police presence on the roads. Labour day weekend is notoriously busy for police services across the country where they are watching out for speeding, impaired drivers, distracted driving, seatbelts and so much more.

All the more reason for you to be prepared for your long weekend trip. Be smart, plan ahead, and give yourself lots of time to arrive safely at your destination. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Leave earlier (or later) than the majority of travelers, and expect heavy traffic. It will take longer to get there.
• Plan a less travelled route and check for roads conditions. Most travel the main highways; smaller highways offer less traffic and better scenery.
• Make sure do a pre-trip check on your vehicle, and ensure you are well rested, buckled up, and put that cell phone away!
• If you come upon a collision, give emergency personnel the space they need. Slow down and move over for police, ambulance, fire truck, or tow trucks with their lights flashing – it is the law!
• Be patient as there will be heavy traffic. Aggressive driving (speeding and tailgating) increase your chances of being in a collision. Leave a safe distance between you and the car in front of you.
• Always signal before changing lanes, and save any drinking for when you get to your final destination.

Photo by huffingtonpost.ca

Have you left your long-weekend planning to the last minute? No worries, sometimes they are the best of times. But, all the more reason to be cautious. Check local listings in your areas for fairs, music festivals, art shows, marathons, bike rides, and so much more. Looking for a quieter side? Check out the beach, rent a cottage or head out to see friends and plan to stay over.

Above all, take the extra time and care needed for any plans you have this long weekend – although you are eager to get there, more importantly is that you got there safe. That is good for you, your loved ones, and your car insurance rates too!

Happy long weekend everyone!