It’s no surprise that many of us are looking for more ways to protect ourselves lately, ever since fatal car accidents in Toronto continue to be more and more frequent. One of the most important things any of us can do is to recognize the problem and act accordingly, and ultimately, only you can really protect yourself!

Here are four ways to keep safe on the streets of TO:

Drive slower and more relaxed

It’s no secret that driving while angry or stressed increases the chances of making mistakes, speeding, and even gas usage! Don’t believe it? Check out this Mythbusters episode. Just imagine all the times you may have done something you regretted while upset and you can see the value of taking a few minutes out of your commute to try to relax if you’re feeling a little irritable.

Look both ways. Seriously!

We’ve all heard our parents nag us as kids about looking both ways before crossing a street, and in this day and age of cellphones, loud music in the car or on foot, makeup application on the freeway and trying to scarf that sub down before you pull in to work, it’s more important than ever to recognize all kinds of distractions and eliminate them while driving or even walking along a busy street. You’ll never know when that one moment of distraction will have dire consequences.

Don’t assume cars will stop

In a lot of other cities in the world, pedestrians just assume cars will stop when they step out onto the street with absolutely no fear. News flash: It’s not the case in Toronto. To avoid impending death, wait for a driver to acknowledge you before you step out onto the street. It’s more important to take a moment and stay on the sidewalk than it is to blaze out into the middle of the road and hope for the best.

Don’t peel through intersections on your bike

Who hasn’t seen this annoying trend? You’re parked at a light, or standing at a crosswalk waiting for the light to switch, when some cyclist blows right through the intersection as if road rules absolutely do not apply. Don’t be that guy. Be the guy who’s careful and attentive of their surroundings and who obeys the rules of the road, for your sake, and for the sake of everyone in your vicinity.