As the temperature drops and conditions get darker, ICBC and police warn drivers to be prepared for the driving in the fall and winter and adjust their driving to the road conditions.
Every October, there is an average of 26 crashes resulting in injuries or death due to driving too fast for the conditions in the Southern Interior. That number more than triples to 97 in December as driving conditions worsen.
In poor conditions, slow down, increase your following distance and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
Tips:
• Consider using your headlights whenever visibility is reduced – not only at night – to help you see and be seen.
• Ice and snow can hit unexpectedly. Early in the season, make sure your tires are rated for the conditions you may be driving in and check your tire pressure regularly – pressure drops in cold weather and overinflated tires can reduce gripping.
• When severe winter conditions arrive, consider alternatives to help you get to work safely – take transit if possible, work from home or adjust your hours of work to avoid rush hour traffic. If you will be driving, visit drivebc.ca to check road conditions for your entire route and for possible road closures.
• In extreme temperatures, keep your gas tank at least half-full to prevent freezing, top up your windshield wiper fluid and pack an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you get stranded or stuck. Clear off any snow that has accumulated on your vehicle so that it doesn’t fall off while driving.