New driver in Quebec? Here's what you need to know
New driver? Whether you got your license the day you turned 16 or waited until you had a little more experience, it's an exciting time to get a driver's license for the first time.
To be clear, having a driver's license is a privilege. Every time we drive a vehicle on public roads, we assume responsibility for our own safety, the safety of our passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. That can be a lot. It can be helpful for new drivers in Quebec to familiarize themselves with the Highway Safety Code and take a basic driver training course to master the techniques of a responsible driver.
If you are a new driver in Quebec, here is what you need to know.
Distracted driving comes in many forms
When we think of "distracted driving," we probably think of texting or general cell phone use. While using your cell phone, sending text messages, or browsing the web all fall under the category of distracted driving, there are many other scenarios that would also qualify as distracted driving.
You might think that distracted driving isn't so bad, but having your eyes off the road for 5 seconds at 90 km/h can be the equivalent of driving an entire football pitch with a headband Here are some examples of distracted driving:
- Send text messages or talk on your phone
- Enter a destination into your GPS
- Read a book
- Read a map
- Eat and drink
- Smoking
- Make up
- Turn around to talk to the passengers
- Watch videos
- Grooming practices
Each province has different penalties and rules regarding distracted driving. In Quebec, a first offence can result in a fine of $300 to $600 and 5 demerit points. A repeat offence within two years can also lead to an immediate licence suspension for a period of 3 to 30 days.
Calculate your car insurance
Every driver needs insurance, whether experienced or not. If you're a new driver who just got your license and you use your family vehicle/still live at home and drive your parents' car, you should be listed on your parents' insurance policy as an occasional driver. It's a good idea to do this as soon as possible, because having a few years of driving experience can lower your insurance rates when you buy your own policy—as long as you haven't had an accident.
If you purchased your own vehicle, you might consider buying your own insurance policy. Liability insurance is mandatory in Quebec, with a minimum coverage amount of $50,000. That said, most insurance companies will only start at around $1,000,000. Damage coverage such as collision and comprehensive insurance are options, but it's recommended to carry them unless your car is more than 10 years old.
Panda7 can help you get affordable car insurance in Quebec as a new driver. Request a quote from us today or call us to discuss your coverage needs at your convenience.
Driver assistance systems are useful, but don't rely on them.
Did your parents' car have a backup camera? If so, you probably already understand how helpful these kinds of tools can be. Driver assistance systems range from power steering and cruise control to blind spot monitoring and even parking sensors, all of which contribute to a much smoother driving experience. However, driver assistance systems can fail, whether due to malfunction, user error, or extreme weather conditions, so you should always be prepared to operate them without them.
Furthermore, if the car you bought after getting your license isn't the same one you learned to drive, you might have to do without driver assistance features, as not all cars have them. Use your judgment and remember that even if you rely on driver assistance systems, you shouldn't depend on them exclusively.
Take a refresher driving course if needed
You may have taken a driver education course or a beginner's driving course before getting your license, but the things we learn when we first start driving and the behaviors and habits we develop later don't always carry over. The rules of the road can change while you're driving, and you'll need to adapt.
Drivers are advised to take a refresher course approximately every 10 years. This is just a general guideline, and you can adjust it based on your own experiences, habits, and so on. Overall, it's not a bad idea; it's not very expensive and can help prevent future fines or incidents.
Respect the traffic rules
This last piece of advice should go without saying, but obeying traffic laws, respecting speed limits and recommendations, and being an attentive driver are the best ways to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road and to avoid tickets or insurance premium increases due to poor driving. You can have fun and stay safe at the same time! Ultimately, once you're behind the wheel, your goal is to pay attention to the cars and the road around you and get to where you need to be as safe as possible. As a new driver in Quebec, there's no excuse for being reckless. We wish you safe driving and hope you stay safe on the roads!