Officials urge more winter driving safety before the holidays

MERRITT – As we get further into winter and closer to the holidays, officials warn once again about road safety throughout the Thompson-Nicola region.

“Driving in winter conditions is a risk every time you get behind the wheel, throughout the Thompson-Nicola,” says campaign spokesperson Trace Acres. “Most crashes are preventable if we install good winter tires, adjust driving for the conditions, pay attention and avoid distractions, and avoid driving when conditions are treacherous.”

The 14 annual Shift into Winter campaign is being put on by Road Safety at Work and with that they have released safety tips for winter driving.

• Don’t drive if it’s not essential
  • Consider postponing trips if conditions are hazardous
  • People who drive for work have the right to refuse to drive in unsafe conditions
• Know before you go
  • Check road conditions through DriveBC
  • Travel during the daylight if possible
  • Allow extra time
  • Let others know where you’re going and when you should be arriving
• Use winter tires
  • Four good winter tires
  • Recommends the 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol
• Be prepared
  • Check fluids in your vehicle
  • Clear all snow and frost
  • Carry a winter driving emergency kit
  • Full charged phone
• Maintain a safe following distance
  • Leave at least four seconds of space
  • Takes longer to stop on slippery roads
• Use caution around highway maintenance equipment
  • Give plows and salt and sand trucks space
  • Never pass them on the right and only on the left

“Safety is my ministry’s number one priority, and our dedicated maintenance contractors are ready to tackle winter conditions on highways throughout the province,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “Drivers can do their part by making sure both their vehicles and their driving habits are prepared for winter conditions, so everyone can have safe travels this holiday season.”

According to a report by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), there is an average of more than 1,900 crashes every year throughout the province over the holidays. Also, ICBC said claims for injuries during work-related driving, increases every December.