Automobile Insurance Tips

Make it as difficult as possible for a thief to steal your vehicle and its contents.

• Always lock your vehicle
• Never leave your keys in the vehicle
• Avoid parking on the street when there are safer locations.
• Turn off your ignition whenever you leave your car
• Conceal items left in your car; keep things in the trunk. Never leave money or compact discs in the open
• Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a well-lit, well-guarded, highly visible area.
• Ask your neighbours to watch out for your vehicle and do the same for them
• Install an anti-theft deterrent such as car alarms or an ignition disabler.

For more information that will help you avoid having your car broken into or stolen, please contact the appropriate industry organization in your area.

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Child restraint Safety

• It is important to install a child's restraint seat properly in order for it to be effective.
   
• Read the manufacturer's installation instructions thoroughly
   
• Many police departments have programs to help with proper installation 

For tips and information regarding child seat safety, please contact Transport Canada.

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Drinking and Driving

Drinking and driving results in serious injuries and loss of life on our roadways. The following organizations can provide statistics and information pertaining to drinking and driving: Transport Canada and the Canada Safety Council.

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Cell Phones & Safety

Cell phones can be valuable equipment in a car when you need to call for assistance. However, they can also be a distraction if they are used while driving, and many jurisdictions have restrictions on cell phone use while driving.

For safety's sake, don't use your cell phone while driving. If you need to make a call, pull over away from traffic.

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Prepare For Winter Driving

Canadians know that winter driving can be treacherous at the best of times. The following organizations can provide tips and information to help you prepare yourself and your vehicle for safe winter driving: Canada Safety Council and Transport Canada.

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Preventing Auto Accidents & Losses

Here’s some simple tips for avoiding some of the most common losses experienced by drivers:

Never leave a car running with no one in it. Thieves target cars in driveways being warmed up on cold winter days and cars left running for a quick coffee stop or movie rental return.

Never leave belongings or parcels in view in a vehicle. Put golf clubs, camera, shopping parcels, clothing etc., in the trunk before you leave the vehicle.

Drive defensively. Always give yourself time and room to react to sudden, unforeseen moves by other vehicles, people and animals. Be cautious in driving on wet or icy roads, particularly that unseen threat: black ice!

The driver is responsible for maintaining control of his or her vehicle at all times, regardless of circumstances.

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Some basic ways you can help reduce your premium costs

• Consider higher deductibles
   
• Drop collision coverage on older vehicles
   

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