The holiday season is in full swing, and Road Safety at Work is reminding motorists of the importance of driving according to road conditions to ensure everyone has a safe holiday season.
Trace Acres, Program Coordinator with Road Safety at Work, says there is an increased risk of crashes during the holiday season and urges motorists to slow down, pay attention, and drive appropriately.
“The message at this time of year is that we’re already into a period of high-risk winter driving. Then you layer on all of the holiday activities, and that can increase the risk. We’re trying to get drivers to not cut corners on their road safety, to not forget the basics of winter driving, and to give yourself more time so that you’re not rushing to get somewhere and potentially putting yourself and other drivers at risk.”
Acres notes the risk is even more prominent in the Kootenay region due to its location between two mountain passes and the significant number of large trucks passing through. He says this, combined with increased highway traffic during the holidays, heightens the risk of collisions.
That’s why it’s critical for drivers to ensure they are prepared.
“If you’re going anywhere on a long trip during the holidays, know before you go. Check Drive BC for road conditions and weather forecasts to make sure you’re not heading into a situation you’re not prepared for,” said Acres.
“Make sure you’ve told someone where you’re going and when you expect to arrive. Be prepared for any delays or the possibility of getting stuck. Have some extra supplies in the car, such as food, water, warm clothing, and a fully charged cellphone.”
He adds that December is particularly risky on BC highways and asks motorists to drive for the conditions, leave space between themselves and other vehicles, and ensure their visibility is clear.
“Those are all key things for winter driving. But then you add on top of that holiday events, family dinners, children’s holiday activities, and shopping. You’ve got a lot of people on the roads all trying to get somewhere, so it just means you have to be extra vigilant and extra focused to make sure that you get where you’re going safely.”
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