In today’s fast-paced world, many occupations require individuals to spend a significant portion of their workday behind the wheel. Whether you’re a delivery driver, a sales representative, or a service technician, driving is an integral part of your job. However, it’s crucial to recognize that operating a vehicle comes with inherent risks, not just for you but for other road users as well.
Defensive driving is an indispensable skill set that can greatly enhance your safety on the road. By being proactive, vigilant, and equipped with the right knowledge and techniques, you can minimize the likelihood of accidents, mitigate potential hazards, and protect both yourself and those around you.
DEFENSIVE DRIVING DEFINITION
What is defensive driving?
Defensive driving is a driving technique that helps drivers anticipate potential hazards and take proactive measures to prevent accidents. This includes following traffic laws, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, scanning the road ahead, and being aware of other drivers’ behaviour.
The purpose of defensive driving training is to educate drivers who already own a driving license on the skills and techniques needed to drive safely and avoid accidents.
It’s worth noting that Defensive Driving training courses in Canada, such as the one we offer, are distinct from programs aimed at addressing demerit points incurred due to traffic violations or “Taking the N off the driver license”. Our course specifically targets employees who operate vehicles as part of their job duties rather than individuals seeking demerit point reduction or driver’s license reinstatement.
Which are the key components of defensive driving?
By developing these key components of defensive driving, drivers can reduce their risk of accidents and injuries on the road. Defensive driving training covers several key components that are essential to safe driving. These include:
- Awareness: Defensive drivers must be aware of their surroundings at all times. This includes being aware of other vehicles, road conditions, weather conditions, and potential hazards.
- Knowledge: Defensive drivers must have a good understanding of the rules of the road, including traffic laws and regulations. They must also be knowledgeable about the types of hazards they may encounter on the road.
- Attitude: Defensive drivers must have a positive attitude towards driving and a commitment to safety. This includes being patient, courteous, and respectful of other drivers.
- Skills: Defensive drivers must have the skills necessary to operate their vehicle safely in a variety of situations. This includes being able to handle emergency situations, such as sudden stops or skids, and being able to avoid accidents.
- Communication: Defensive drivers must be able to communicate effectively with other drivers on the road. This includes using turn signals and other communication tools to signal their intentions to other drivers.
- Risk Assessment: Defensive drivers must be able to assess potential risks on the road and take appropriate action to avoid accidents. This includes recognizing hazardous conditions and adapting their driving behaviour to mitigate those risks.
- Preparedness: Defensive drivers must be prepared for unexpected situations on the road. This includes having a plan for emergencies, such as breakdowns or accidents, and carrying appropriate safety equipment in their vehicle.
What are the main hazards associated with driving?
Driving can be a dangerous activity, especially in Canada where harsh weather conditions and long distances between destinations can increase the risk of accidents. In order to stay safe on the road, it is essential for drivers to understand the main types of driving hazards and to develop the skills necessary to mitigate those risks. This is where defensive driving training comes in.
There are several types of hazards that drivers may encounter on the road. These include:
- Weather Hazards: Canada is known for its harsh weather conditions, including snow, ice, rain, and fog. These conditions can make it difficult for drivers to see the road and control their vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Road Hazards: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris on the road can all create hazards for drivers, especially at high speeds.
- Other Drivers: Other drivers on the road can be unpredictable and may engage in risky behaviours, such as speeding or distracted driving.
- Pedestrians and Cyclists: Pedestrians and cyclists can be difficult to see and may not follow the rules of the road, creating hazards for drivers.
- Animals: Wildlife can be a hazard on rural roads, especially at night when visibility is low.
- Vehicle Malfunctions: Mechanical problems with a vehicle, such as a flat tire or brake failure, can create hazards on the road.
DEFENSIVE DRIVING LEGISLATION
What is federal defensive driving legislation?
Canada’s Criminal Code
Canada’s Criminal Code includes provisions related to dangerous driving, which is defined as driving that is “dangerous to the public, having regard to all the circumstances, including the nature, condition, and use of the place at which the motor vehicle is being operated and the amount of traffic that at the time is or might reasonably be expected to be on the place.” (Source: Government of Canada, Canada’s Criminal Code, URL: https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/c-46/) Dangerous driving can result in serious criminal charges and penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record.
Road Safety Strategy 2025
The federal government of Canada’s Road Safety Strategy 2025 aims to reduce the number of traffic fatalities and injuries in Canada. One of the key components of this strategy is promoting the practice of defensive driving. The strategy includes measures such as increasing public awareness of defensive driving techniques, improving road infrastructure and vehicle safety, and providing law enforcement with the tools they need to enforce traffic laws effectively.
Insurance Premiums
Insurance companies use various factors to determine your insurance premiums, including your driving record, age, and type of vehicle. If you have a poor driving record, such as multiple traffic violations or accidents, you can expect to pay higher insurance premiums.
In Canada, third-party liability insurance is mandatory for all drivers. This insurance covers you in case you cause damage to another person’s property or injure someone in a car accident. If you are found to be at fault in an accident, your insurance company will be responsible for paying for the damages (Source: Insurance Bureau of Canada, How Car Insurance Premiums are Calculated, URL: https://www.ibc.ca/insurance-basics/auto/how-auto-insurance-rates-are-set).
However, if you are not practicing defensive driving and are involved in an accident, your insurance company may consider you to be at fault. This can result in higher insurance premiums for third-party coverage. Additionally, if you have multiple accidents or violations on your record, your insurance company may refuse to renew your policy or cancel it altogether.
What is provincial and territorial defensive driving legislation?
In addition to federal legislation, each province and territory in Canada has its own set of defensive driving laws and regulations. These laws are designed to promote safe and responsible driving practices and to reduce the number of accidents on the roads.
For example in Alberta, defensive driving courses are available for drivers who want to improve their driving skills. Defensive driving courses are also required for drivers who have been convicted of certain traffic offenses, such as speeding or running a red light. (Source: Government of Alberta, Traffic Safety Act, URL: https://kings-printer.alberta.ca/1266.cfm?page=T06.cfm&leg_type=Acts&isbncln=9780779807124).
In most Canadian provinces, completing defensive driving courses can offer several benefits to drivers, including potential insurance discounts, improved Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) awareness, and enhanced hazard recognition skills.
Moreover, many insurance companies recognize the value of defensive driving training in mitigating risk, making drivers who have completed such courses eligible for insurance premium reductions, thereby incentivizing individuals and businesses to invest in these programs for overall road safety and cost-saving benefits.
DEFENSIVE DRIVING TRAINING
What is Defensive Driving training?
Defensive driving training is a type of driver education that focuses on teaching drivers how to anticipate and avoid potential hazards on the road. It’s worth noting that Defensive Driving training courses in Canada, such as the one we offer, are distinct from programs aimed at addressing demerit points incurred due to traffic violations. Our course specifically targets employees who operate vehicles as part of their job duties, rather than individuals seeking demerit point reduction or driver’s license reinstatement.
Moreover, our Defensive Driving training program complies with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) regulations in Canada. By adhering to these regulations, we ensure that our course covers relevant workplace safety practices and provides employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to maintain a safe driving environment while on the job.
Who is responsible for Defensive Training?
Employers are often responsible for providing defensive driving training to their employees who drive for work purposes. This includes anyone who operates a company vehicle, as well as employees who use their personal vehicle for work-related purposes. Employers have a duty to ensure that their employees are trained and competent in safe driving practices, and may be held liable if an employee is involved in an accident due to inadequate training.
Individuals may also choose to take defensive driving training on their own, either to improve their driving skills or to meet a professional requirement. For example, new drivers in some provinces may be required to complete a defensive driving course before they can obtain a driver’s license. Additionally, some employers may require job candidates to have completed defensive driving training as a condition of employment.
Government agencies may also be responsible for providing defensive driving training to certain groups, such as law enforcement officers or emergency responders. Additionally, government agencies may set standards and regulations for defensive driving training programs, as well as enforce compliance with these standards.
Who needs Defensive Driving training?
Defensive driving training can benefit all drivers, regardless of age or experience. However, there are certain groups of drivers in Canada who may have a higher need for defensive driving training.
- Transportation and Delivery Services
Professional drivers in the transportation and delivery industry spend a significant amount of time on the road, often driving long distances and navigating challenging traffic conditions. Defensive driving training can help these drivers develop safe driving habits and learn how to avoid common hazards on the road.
- Construction and Mining
Workers in the construction and mining industries often operate heavy equipment and vehicles in hazardous environments. Defensive driving training can help these workers learn how to safely operate their equipment and avoid accidents and collisions.
- Emergency Services
Emergency service workers, such as police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, are often required to respond to emergency situations quickly and safely while driving. Defensive driving training can help these workers learn how to operate their vehicles safely and respond to emergency situations in a timely and effective manner.
- Utilities
Utility workers, such as electricians and gas workers, often need to travel to different job sites and operate their vehicles in challenging environments. Defensive driving training can help these workers learn how to safely navigate hazardous conditions and avoid accidents on the road.
- Government and Public Services
Government and public service workers, such as postal workers and public transit drivers, interact with the public on a daily basis and are responsible for safely transporting people and goods. Defensive driving training can help these workers develop safe driving habits and learn how to respond to emergency situations while on the job.
These are just a few examples of industries that can benefit from defensive driving training. Ultimately, any industry that involves driving can benefit from this type of training, as it can help reduce the risk of accidents and improve the safety of drivers on the road.
Can you do Defensive Driving Training online?
This course requires only theoretical training and evaluation, making it suitable for both classroom and online formats. Online training adheres to the same standards as classroom training, ensuring that it is recognized and accepted. In fact, online training can be more convenient and efficient, as it eliminates the need for in-person attendance and allows for flexible scheduling.
Moreover, classroom trainings often have certain requirements imposed by the Ministry of Labour, such as a minimum duration of 8 hours, which may not always be necessary for the content being covered. Online training can be more efficient in this regard, as a well-designed 2-hour course can cover all the necessary material effectively.
Additionally, online training can be a more cost-effective option for employers compared to organizing in-person classroom sessions.
However, keep in mind that employers are responsible for selecting the appropriate level of training for their workplace, so it’s essential to check with your employer to ensure they accept online training for this purpose.
Keep in mind that online Defensive Driving training courses, such as the one we offer, are distinct from programs aimed at addressing demerit points incurred due to traffic violations. These programs are often in the form of classroom trainings and are offered by licensed providers.
Where can you purchase Defensive Driving online training?
In today’s fast-paced society, online courses have become the cheapest and most convenient solution to get your safety training done. There are many methods and providers of Defensive Driving training. With any training, it is essential to select a high-quality education provider and one that will provide the most value (best information retention in employees) for the time and money.
Ensuring your program materials are always up to date is also extremely important as the amount of health and safety regulations and enforcement is steadily increasing and constantly updating.
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DEFENSIVE TRAINING CERTIFICATE
What do you need to learn?
To obtain a certificate in defensive driving, drivers must complete a defensive driving course that covers the key components of defensive driving, including awareness, knowledge, attitude, and skills.
How long is the certificate valid?
The standard expiration date for this course is 2 years. Car accidents can prove fatal even when one or several of the injured parties drive flawlessly. That is why, as a driver, you must keep yourself up to date with the latest safety regulations and collision prevention strategies.
How will I receive my training certificate with eSafetyFirst?
The certificate will be automatically available for printing once you complete the course and pass the quiz with a score of 80% or higher.
All our courses will come with a PDF certificate at the end of the program.
This PDF file will have two pages: a standard certificate and a wallet-size training record.
The employer should store certificates, while the employee should carry their wallet cards at all times during work.
Students who prefer to receive wallet cards in a physical format can request and purchase a physical wallet card from eSafetyFirst. This optional item is not included in the course price and will cost an additional $10 for printing and shipping.
If you do not have the time to make your laminated wallet card, you may find it rather convenient to order this card directly from us.
How can I find my certificate if I lost it?
In most cases, this question is addressed to us by individuals who took their training with a different company. As a private company, we can only store and access our customers’ data. Therefore, if you did your training with another company, you need to contact them to receive a copy of your certificate.
If you are a customer of eSafetyFirst.com, then all you have to do is to Login to your account, and you can, at any time, download a copy of the certificate you received from us.
CONCLUSION
Defensive driving training is an important part of safe driving in Canada. By becoming more aware of their surroundings, following the rules of the road, and being prepared to react to unexpected situations, drivers can reduce their risk of accidents and injuries. Whether required by an employer or sought out independently, defensive driving training can provide drivers with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe on the road. By staying up-to-date on the latest legislation and guidelines, drivers can ensure that they are taking all necessary steps to protect themselves and others on the road.