Here are the most common driving errors, according to Nicola Morris, acting sergeant at the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Highway Safety Division, and some tips for avoiding them.

Tailgaiting

“People are distracted while they’re driving and get too close to the vehicle in front of them,” says Morris. “They may not be aware of the stopping distance for their vehicle based on the speed that they’re going.” This can result in rear-end collisions. There’s no set following distance to suit all conditions — good judgment is required, and your speed, vehicle, the weather and traffic should all be considered. Rushing can also be a factor for tailgating, according to Morris. “Plan your trip appropriately, so you don’t have to drive unsafely to get [to your destination] on time.”

Not adjusting speed to suit conditions

Drivers tend to use the speed limit as their guide. “But if traffic is heavy, if it’s raining, or if the lighting is poor, you have to decrease your speed in response to those road conditions,” she says. If drivers must brake suddenly but haven’t slowed to accommodate slippery roads, they risk a high-speed collision. Often, drivers will opt to drive at the speed of traffic around them, especially if they’re distracted, she points out. “Going with the flow makes the erroneous assumption that everybody is a good driver.”

Neglecting to check blind spots

The third common error relates to making lane changes using mirrors and alerts without physically turning to check blind spots. Many drivers become very dependent on their cameras and warning systems, says Morris. Bottom line? “It’s good technology, but it has to be used properly. And we have to remember that we, as drivers, are still responsible for our vehicle and our driving behaviours.”