6 tips for new drivers

1-Have a good driving role model

New drivers need to pick their role models carefully. Inappropriate behaviour (road rage being an extreme case) and breaking the rules in the Highway Safety Code are not hereditary, but they are transmitted from one generation to the next. Yelling at other drivers, not coming to a full stop at stop signs, and having poor driving posture are examples of bad habits parents can pass on to their children.

2-Learn to share the road

The Highway Safety Code was updated in 2018 to better reflect the current reality on Quebec’s roads. A new responsibility was introduced with regard to road sharing: bigger road users must watch out for smaller ones. In other words, the changes aim to cultivate courtesy behind the wheel, including for young drivers. Simply knowing how to drive isn’t enough; motorists must know how to share the road. Under the changes, motorists are responsible for the safety of the cyclists and pedestrians they encounter while driving.

3-Avoid distracted driving

In 2017 distracted driving became the leading cause of death on Quebec roads according to the SAAQ’s annual report. It is against the law to operate a cell phone while driving. In fact, with the exception of hands-free devices, motorists are prohibited from operating any connected devices, including GPS navigation systems, once their car engine is running. This includes times when the vehicle is stopped at a red light. The penalties are steep: a $300 to $600 fine plus 5 demerit points. Fines also double for repeat offences within a certain time. Plus, repeat offenders may have their licences suspended for a time depending on the number of infractions.

4-Never drive after using drugs or alcohol

As with alcohol, drug-impaired driving is a criminal offence. Police officers are trained to detect drug-impaired drivers using roadside movement coordination tests and further testing at the police station. The penalties for impaired driving are severe. Upon arrest, an impaired driver’s licence is immediately suspended and their vehicle is seized. Motorists who are convicted of impaired driving are fined, prohibited from driving, and receive a criminal record. Drugs affect the brain in a way that that is totally incompatible with driving. Never get behind the wheel after using drugs or alcohol!

With regard to drinking and driving, drivers under 22 years of age and drivers with learner’s or probationary licences are subject to zero-tolerance regulations. Offenders’ licences are immediately suspended for 90 days, they receive 4 demerit points, and they are fined $300 to $600.

5-Don’t rely solely on driving aids

Assisted driving, intelligent cruise control, backup cameras, and other driving aids give the impression that today’s cars are safer than ever. According to Mr. Rekouane, that’s not entirely true: “You should never take any risks because technology will never be infallible.” Technology will never replace judgment and watchfulness.

6-Choose the right car insurance

No matter what type of licence you have (learner’s, probationary, or full licence), every driver must be insured. A young person who drives the family vehicle must be listed as an occasional driver on their parents’ policy. It’s a good idea to gain a few years of driving experience before purchasing your own insurance because a spotless driving record will reduce your premium.

Of course, young drivers who buy their own vehicles must take out their own insurance policies. Liability insurance that covers material damage and injuries to others is mandatory. In Quebec the minimum amount for liability insurance is $50,000, but a number of insurance companies start at $1 million. Damage insurance for your own vehicle is optional. Warning: If the vehicle in question was purchased with a loan from a financial institution that has not been fully repaid, the creditor may require that the vehicle be covered.

You have to shop around before buying insurance. Premiums for the same coverage can vary considerably from one company to another. The good news is that many insurance companies offer discounts to full-time students. Check out our tips for saving on your insurance.

Factors that affect the price of car insurance

Insurance companies set your premium based on a range of criteria. Your age, gender, and driving record and the type of vehicle all affect the cost. For example, sports cars, which are expensive to repair and prized by thieves, cost more to insure, as do new vehicles. Before buying a car, you should check with your insurance company to see how much it will cost to insure the one have your eye on.