ICBC shares safety tips for drivers ahead of Labour Day long weekend

September 01, 2022

The last long weekend of the summer is upon us, and that means many British Columbians will be on the road throughout the weekend.

More vehicles on B.C. roads leads to more crashes. On average, three people are killed and 600 people are injured in crashes over the Labour Day long weekend every year.*

If you plan on driving over the long weekend, please review our safety tips before you head out.

ICBC safety tips for drivers this weekend:

• Check your vehicle before you go. Before you head off on your trip, check your engine oil, coolant levels and make sure your lights are working. Inspect your vehicle tires, including the spare, to make sure they're in good condition and properly inflated. If you'll be travelling with your pet, make sure they're properly secured. You should also securely tie down any camping or outdoor equipment to your vehicle before you venture out.

• Don't rush. Leave early and give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Check road conditions at DriveBC.ca before you leave. Be realistic about travel times and expect delays along your drive. Don't rush to make up time and obey the speed limits at all times. Following the speed limit not only reduces your risk of crashing, you will also save on fuel by driving at a steady speed.

• Watch for motorcycles. There are many more motorcyclists on our roads during the summer, so it's vital to scan for them as you approach an intersection. Be ready to yield the right-of-way when turning left and keep in mind that it can be hard to tell how fast a motorcycle may be travelling.

• Be courteous with R.V. drivers and those towing trailers or boats. If you're behind a slow moving RV or truck climbing up a hill, leave extra space and be patient as they're probably trying their best to keep up with the flow of traffic. If you're driving an R.V. or towing weight and holding up drivers behind you, be courteous and pull over when it's safe to do so to let others by. Don't try and pass a slower moving vehicle out of frustration as this puts you and others on the road at risk. Wait until it is safe to pass. We all share the road together.

• Be alert. It's essential to keep your mind and your eyes on the road at all times. Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of crashes, so remember to leave your phone alone. If you find yourself getting tired while behind the wheel, pull over at the nearest rest area and nap if you need to.​

Statistics:*

• ​In the Lower Mainland, on average, one person is killed and 440 people are injured in 1,300 crashes every year over the Labour Day long weekend.

• In the Southern Interior, on average, one person is killed and 68 people are injured in 300 crashes every year over the Labour Day long weekend.

• On Vancouver Island, on average, one person is killed and 68 people are injured in 300 crashes every year over the Labour Day long weekend.

• In North Central B.C., on average, one person is killed and 22 people are injured in 110 crashes every year over the Labour Day long weekend.

*Five year annual average. Crash and injury data is ICBC data (2017 to 2021). Fatality data is police data (2015 to 2020). Labour Day long weekend is calculated from 18:00 the Friday prior to Labour Day to midnight on Labour Day.