ICBC warns of risks while driving during the long weekend

ICBC urges caution to people driving this long weekend, as the roads are going to be much busier than usual.

“Well in Northern BC, we are going to have people out there on the highways, so that’s going to include folks that are in RVs, people that are traveling with campers, there might be a few cyclists as well. Make sure you give them the room they need,” said Doug MacDonald with ICBC.

According to ICBC, three people are killed and 600 people are injured in 2,100 crashes every BC Day long weekend.

They released some regional statistics based on a five-year annual average:

• Over the BC Day long weekend, 27 people are injured in 130 crashes in North Central BC every year.
• Over the BC Day long weekend, 400 people are injured in 1,300 crashes in Lower Mainland every year.
• Over the BC Day long weekend, 97 people are injured in 380 crashes in the Southern Interior every year.
• Over the BC Day long weekend, 65 people are injured in 300 crashes in Vancouver Island every year.

“It’s all about prevention. We know that statistics are going to go up during the long weekends, but we know there are things we can do to reduce that risk,” said MacDonald.

ICBC also gave some tips to help you stay safe on your drive:

• Check your options such as taxis, ride-hailing, transit, or shuttle services before you head out if you intend to drink, especially if you’re not familiar with an area.
• Most crashes occur on Friday, so try to travel on Thursday or Saturday to avoid congestion.
• Do a vehicle inspection. Check your engine oil and coolant levels. Check your tires, including your spare. And make sure all your camping and outdoor equipment are secured properly.
• Be more aware of motorcycles on the road, it can be hard to tell how fast motorcyclists are traveling.
• Be patient with RV drivers if they’re traveling below the speed limit. If you are driving an RV this weekend, pull over and allow others to pass when it’s safe to do so.