Many Saskatchewan families are planning for the upcoming Thanksgiving long weekend. With the recent snow and slush in some parts of Saskatchewan, it’s important to consider some safe driving practices before heading out for that annual family road trip.

Examine your vehicle to make sure it’s road ready. Check the mechanical features and tires. Seat belts must be in working condition and worn by all passengers, including the driver. Children’s car seats and booster seats should be correctly installed. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination and return home safely as there will be increased traffic on our highways. 

Take along a roadside assistance kit, available at CAA Stores. Pack a flashlight, booster cables, tire puncture sealant, first-aid kit, flares, drinking water, non-perishable food, extra outdoor clothing and footwear, plus a mobile phone with batteries and charger for emergency calls or for CAA Roadside Assistance. Share your driving route with friends and family and travel on primary roads. Gas prices change quickly. Visit caa.ca/gas-prices for the lowest gas prices and download the CAA App for easy reference.

Once you’re behind the wheel, remember to put that mobile phone away. Do all your mobile phone or navigation system planning prior to driving or ask one of the passengers to be your communications buddy. Let’s eliminate all forms of distracted driving. Did you know that distracted driving is defined as any distraction that takes the driver’s eyes and mind away from the road, such as the use of mobile phones, eating and drinking, smoking, or grooming? If you need to check your phone or assist passengers in the vehicle, pull over or park when safe to do so and put your vehicle’s hazard lights on. Remember to slow to 60 km/h when passing tow truck operators and emergency personnel assisting motorists on Saskatchewan highways. When you see flashing lights, slow down. It really is a matter of life and death. Please remember, don’t drive impaired.

For automotive help, visit the CAA Car Care Centre at Regina Battery Depot or an Approved Auto Repair Service facility. CAA Roadside Assistance is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Learn more at caask.ca/safety

For further information, contact:
Christine Niemczyk, Director of Communications | CAA Saskatchewan
306.791.4327 | christine.niemczyk@caask.ca | caask.ca 

CAA Saskatchewan serves approximately 181,000 Members, offering benefits and services through its non-profit motor club, and through its travel and insurance agencies, as well as the CAA Car Care Centre at Regina Battery Depot. CAA advocates for motorists, pedestrians and travellers, provides consumer education, supports traffic safety programs and addresses related public policy issues