Road Courtesy: It’s Everyone’s Business

While it is essential to obey the Highway Safety Code, it is just as important to show courtesy and tolerance on the road. Courtesy is for all road users: pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, motorists and heavy vehicle drivers. All of them must share a public area where good manners are essential. To avoid unpleasant situations that may result in conflicts, follow these safety tips.

Plan your itinerary and the time needed to get where you’re going. This way you’ll avoid the stress of trying to find your way or of being late.
Observe the rules of the Highway Safety Code, whatever your method of travel. Obey speed limits, traffic signals, road signs and right-of-ways. Use your flashers or make appropriate gestures to signal turns and lane changes well in advance.
Concentrate on driving your vehicle and pay attention to other road users.
Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead. The recommended following distance is that traveled by a vehicle in 2 seconds in summer and 4 seconds in winter.
Leave space for others and be especially attentive to the most vulnerable road users (cyclists and pedestrians).
Treat other road users with respect and tolerance and keep in mind that bad manoeuvres by other motorists are not always intentional or voluntary.
Wave or nod to thank another road user.
Use a gesture to apologize to another road user if you make an error.

Getting cut off by another vehicle, being tailgated, someone passing you at breakneck speed, being the target of an obscene gesture are all situations where it is better to keep your cool. Whether on foot, on a bike or in a car, remain calm and cautious because you never know who you might be dealing with.

Road safety and courtesy are intricately linked. Using courteous driving behavior not only reduces the risk of getting in an accident but also contributes to maintaining a smooth and respectful driving pace for all road users. Courtesy goes a long way on the road!