ICBC urges drivers to use caution over the holidays as crashes peak in December

BRITISH COLUMBIA — In a news release sent out by ICBC, drivers are encouraged to use caution while out on the roads.

December sees more crashes than any other month in B.C. Over the Christmas holidays and New Year’s each year, on average, 457 people are injured and two people are killed in 1,772 crashes across the province.

Every year during the Christmas holidays, on average, one person is killed and 38 people are injured in 175 crashes in the Southern Interior.

Prepare your vehicle for winter conditions. If you’re travelling through mountain passes, many B.C. highways require winter tires labelled with either the mountain/snowflake symbol or the mud and snow (M+S) designation.

Top up wiper fluid for clear visibility and pack an emergency kit with essentials like a blanket, warm clothing, food and water.

Check road conditions on drivebc.ca before hitting the road and visit Shift Into Winter for more tips on preparing your vehicle for winter conditions.

credit – Province of BC

It’s important to adjust your driving speed to the road conditions, recognizing that posted speed limits are for ideal conditions.

The faster you go, the longer it takes to stop – which increases your risk of a crash. Remember that small changes in how you drive can have a big impact, and driving at a lower speed will give you more time to react.

Maintain a safe travelling distance between vehicles and allow increased time and distance for stopping on wet, icy, or snowy roads.

Be alert in parking lots. When you’re running errands this holiday season, keep in mind that parking lots can be a challenging environment with more congestion and pedestrians.

Pay extra attention, slow down, and back into parking spots when possible. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists when entering or exiting a parking lot.

Image: DriveBC webcam / Hwy 5, southbound at Zopkios Rest Area, near the Coquihalla Summit, looking northeast.

Take a break. During longer trips, use highway rest stops to stretch, take a break and check your messages.

Pull over at the nearest rest area as soon as you start to feel drowsy. Get out and walk around to get some fresh air. If that’s not enough, turn off your car and take a nap.

Plan ahead. If your celebrations involve alcohol or other drugs, plan ahead for a safe ride home.

Arrange a designated driver, book a taxi or ride sharing service, take public transit, or use Operation Red Nose where available.

Every year during the Christmas holidays, on average, two people are killed and 288 people are injured in 1,187 crashes in B.C.