Taya Fast

ICBC urges caution over B.C. long weekend

Jul 29, 2021 | 5:50 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Whether you are heading out of town or staying local this long weekend, ICBC is reminding drivers to drive safely this weekend.

“When we look at the numbers we see an increase in crashes on long weekends because there are more people driving,” said ICBC Road and Safety Community Coordinator, Doug Mac Donald.

Every B.C. Day long weekend, on average, three people are killed and around 600 people are injured in the over 2,000 crashes that occur throughout the province.

“Over B.C. day long weekend we typically see in Northern B.C 130 crashes, and 27 people on average are injured in those crashes,” said Prince George RCMP Cst. Jennifer Cooper.

According to the Prince George RCMP they will have more officers out on patrol over the weekend.

“We will be conducting traffic enforcement in the city, searching for impaired drivers. As well, we will be out making sure people are keeping their speeds down and working with our partner agencies to get everybody where they are going, safely,” continued Cooper.

Cooper also says that it is important to air on the side of caution rather than taking any risks on the road.

“Prince George RCMP does want to remind people to take it easy while driving and if you are planning to have a few drinks make sure you have planned ahead for a safe ride home,” said Cooper.

ICBC emphasized what drivers need to look out for while on the roads to ensure they arrive to their destination safely.

“When you are out on the roads whether it is in town or traveling throughout the north – make sure you give yourself enough time to get to where you are going,” continued Mac Donald.

Mac Donald continued to say to watch for vulnerable road users like motorcycles, motorhomes, and those pulling trailers. If you are heading out of town to watch for animals on the road as well.

RCMP are asking that if you do see any suspected impaired drivers or dangerous driving to report it to police.