DriveSmartBC

This edition of Vision Zero International looks at air bags, augmented reality information systems and driver distraction, reducing interface demands through type face design and other news on how technology in our vehicles will reduce the possibility of a crash.

My first thought on seeing the iOnRoad app for either your Android or iPhone is that this would be a great tool for a parent teaching their child to drive.

This video from the Motor Accident Commission of South Australia explains clearly how the risk of a crash increases significantly with only a slight increase in speed. For me, the most interesting point is the idea that we tend to discount the risk because we disregard the speed limit frequently and nothing happens to us.

We've had some interesting weather in southwestern British Columbia over the last few days! It's included some less than ideal driving conditions due to ice, snow and rain, often in combination. A common bit of advice heard in the media is "if you don't have to travel, stay home!" Does anyone heed this advice?

Taking away someone's privilege to drive is viewed as a drastic step in correcting driving behaviour. Currently, a fully licensed driver has to accumulate a significant number of points in a year before the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles takes steps to apply this penalty. In my experience, the traffic courts are also reluctant to take this step, saying "I'll leave that up to the Superintendent." when the officer prosecuting requests a prohibition as part of the penalty.

Buying a set of used tires can be economical, but it can also hold hidden hazards that would make them much less than a bargain. Information from TyreSafe in the UK demonstrates some of the pitfalls that buying a used tire may hold.

Mirror, signal left, brake and stop before the marked stop line. Look left, look right and the vehicle that was following me stops on my right, half on and half off the roadway, making his right turn. Of course, I can't see cross traffic to my right properly, so he gets to go before I do.

It’s an unfortunate reality in nearly every major city—road congestion, especially during rush hours. Jonas Eliasson reveals how subtly nudging just a small percentage of drivers to stay off major roads can make traffic jams a thing of the past.

My life is usually mostly rural in character, but I've been visiting Surrey this week as both a driver and a pedestrian. Given the spate of vehicle / pedestrian collisions in the news lately it has been interesting to consider how they happen in light of my unusual surroundings.

This TyreSafe video from the UK is equally valid here in British Columbia. Well, except for the 20p coin tread depth test of course! It urges you to consider the condition of your tires monthly, or at least prior to every long trip. In addition to what to check, it adds information on how tires can affect your ability to operate your vehicle safely.