By CKPGToday

ICBC Reminds Motorists To Drive Smart Over The Holidays

Dec 20, 2018 | 8:51 AM

VANCOUVER – With the holidays coming up, ICBC is reminding drivers to be prepared and drive safe. ICBC warns motorists that 35 crashes occur and nine people get injured every hour over the holiday season. 

Some tips to help guarantee a safe trip include: 

• Checking your vehicle to make sure it has winter tires with either the mountain/snowflake symbol or mud and snow (M+S) designation. 
• Top up wiper fluid for clearer visibility and pack an emergency kit that has items including blankets, food and water. 
• Be sure to slow down on wet, icy or snowy roads as it takes more time and distance to come to a complete stop. 
• Avoid any distractions by taking any and all calls before getting into your vehicle and check your messages at rest stops if it’s a longer commute. 
• If you’re feeling drowsy during the drive, pull over and get out and walk around for some fresh air. If that doesn’t do the trick, turn off your car and take a nap in a safe area.
• Don’t drink and drive – plan for a safe ride home such as a designated driver, taxi, transit or Operation Red Nose. 

During the Christmas holiday, there’s an average of 13 people that get injured in 88 crashes in the North Central region every year. In BC, one person is killed and 340 people are injured in 1,200 crashes on average. For New Year’s, there’s an average of 10 people that are injured in 48 crashes in the North Central region. In BC, on average, one person is killed and 170 people are injured in 690 crashes.