The Labour Day long weekend marks the last chance many of us are able to get out for one more summer road trip. But according to ICBC, it can also be a busy time on B.C. roads.
Over the Labour Day weekend, an average of five people are killed and 520 people are injured in 2,000 crashes across the province.
In fact, in 2015 on Vancouver Island, 51 people were injured in 270 crashes over the final long weekend of the summer.
That’s why it’s important for drivers to plan ahead and make smart decisions such as checking the condition of your vehicle, allowing plenty of time to reach your destination and programming your GPS-device before heading out on the road,”
This Labour Day weekend is expected to be busy so ICBC has released the following advice to help motorists stay safe on BC’s roads.
Pre-trip check
Check your engine oil, coolant levels and lights, and inspect your vehicle tires, including the spare, to make sure they’re in good condition and properly inflated. Make sure any camping or outdoor equipment is securely tied down to your vehicle before you take off.
Plan your route
Check drivebc.ca to view weather and road conditions for major routes throughout B.C.
Eliminate distractions
Turn off your cellphone before you head out or put it in the trunk so you won’t be tempted to answer if it rings. Help keep your family and friends safe by not texting, calling or answering if you know someone is behind the wheel.
Keep your distance
Allow at least two seconds of following distance between vehicles in good road conditions, and at least three seconds on high-speed roads. Increase your distance when you’re following a large vehicle such as an RV (it can block your vision) or a motorcycle (it can stop quicker than a car).
Watch for RVs
You’ll likely spot many recreational vehicles on the highways this weekend. If you’re driving in mountainous areas, you may find that many RVs are driving below the speed limit because they may be underpowered and overloaded. Be patient with these drivers as they are likely going uphill as fast as they can. If you’re driving your RV, be courteous and pull over to let others by if you’re holding up traffic. This is much safer than a driver making an unsafe pass out of frustration.
