With snowfall forecasted in many northern B.C. communities this week, drivers are being urged to adjust their driving habits to the more challenging road conditions they will encounter.
Every October, an average of 24 crashes resulting in injuries or death due to driving too fast for the conditions occur in the North Central region, and the number nearly doubles to 44 in December as driving conditions worsen, according to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia.
"Snowy, icy conditions can seriously reduce visibility on our roads and make it difficult to stop and steer," ICBC director of road safety John Dickinson said. "In poor weather, slow down, increase your following distance to at least four seconds and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination."
Tips:
- Consider using your headlights whenever weather is poor and visibility is reduced - not only at night - to help you see ahead and be seen by other drivers.
- 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.
