Drivers are being urged to pay close attention to unpredictable and varying conditions when they take to the roads this Family Day long weekend.
Snow, sleet, heavy rain, fog and ice are just some of the challenging winter conditions they could be facing, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia said.
On average, 24 people are killed and 5,700 are injured in 19,000 crashes every February in B.C.
For the North Central region, the count is two people killed and 270 injured in 1,300 crashes over that time, according to ICBC.
Here are some tips to stay safe:
Pre-trip check: Check your tire pressure and top up your windshield wiper fluid.
Remember that you are still required to use winter tires on certain B.C. highways until March 31.
Know your route: Visit drivebc.ca to check road conditions for your entire route and possible road closures. There may be increased traffic volumes this long weekend so be realistic about your travel time and allow extra time to get to your destination.
It's dark out there: Since it gets dark early in the evening right now, avoid setting off on your road trip after a full day of work if you can and, instead, wait until the next morning.
If you do travel after work, make sure you get a good sleep the night before and take rest breaks or switch drivers every two hours to prevent driver fatigue. If weather is poor or visibility is reduced, consider using your headlights to help you see ahead and be seen by other drivers.
Adjust your driving: Posted speed limits are for ideal conditions only.
It takes more time and distance to come to a complete stop on wet, icy or snowy roads.
Adjust your speed to the conditions and always maintain a safe travelling distance between vehicles.
Put it down: Make important calls before you get in your vehicle. Use rest stops to take a break, get some fresh air and check your messages.
If you know you may find it challenging to ignore your cellphone while driving, turn it off or put it in the trunk of your car so you won't be tempted.
