Previous Page

Table Of Contents

Next Page


  Introduction

  When you are in the driver’s seat, a whole
  new world opens to you. For drivers of all
  ages, getting an operator’s licence can be a
  rite of passage, providing opportunities for
  employment, mobility and independence.

  Driving involves responsibility and
  risk. The following are the key skills you
  must develop to prepare yourself for this
  responsibility.

  ATTITUDE:
  Develop an attitude of safe and responsible
  driving every time you drive.

  AWARENESS:
  Be aware of what is happening around you
  as you drive, and always make responsible
  decisions about hazards and problems.

  KNOWLEDGE:
  Learn and understand traffic laws and rules
  of the road.

  SKILL:
  Enroll in driver education programs to
  learn more about operating a motor
  vehicle safely.

  It takes education, training and practice
  to develop this awareness, knowledge and
  skill. Your attitude shows in the decisions
  you make about being a responsible driver.
  Be prepared to be courteous with other
  road users. Always drive proactively.

 

Along with all the benefits that motor
vehicles provide, there are also costs.
Beyond the direct costs of building and
maintaining our roadways, there are
environmental and human costs. Recent
statistics on road safety in Alberta show
that in 2008 there were 158,055 collisions
reported. In this year, 410 people were
killed in those collisions and 22,015 were
injured. Most collisions can be prevented.

The Office of Traffic Safety recommends that you
obtain training and education from a
licensed driving school to enhance your
knowledge and skill. Driver education
courses are available for the operation of
passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles,
and motorcycles.

If you require information about
schools that provide driver education, or
information about the testing process to
obtain an operator’s licence:
• refer to your local directory.
• visit www.transportation.alberta.ca
  (under Drivers and Vehicles).
• contact a Driver Programs Administrator
in Edmonton 780–427–8901 or Calgary
403–297–6679. You can reach Alberta
Government offices toll-free from
anywhere in the province by first calling
310–0000.

Winter 2011