Drivers in British Columbia are urged to be prepared this winter and drive according to the conditions.

According to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), crash numbers spike during the winter as driving conditions worsen with crashes caused by driving too fast for the conditions jumping dramatically – up 79 per cent in December and 64 per cent in January compared to October.

“The conditions on our roads can change very quickly this time of year,” said Kathleen Nadalin, ICBC road safety manager. “We urge drivers to slow down, watch for pedestrians, and make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving.”

BC Highway Patrol will also be out monitoring roads to ensure drivers slow down and drive safely in winter conditions.

The ICBC has also offered the following winter driving tips:

  • Choose the right tires: Winter tires perform better below 7°C. Look for the Mountain Snowflake or M+S symbol and ensure your tread depth is at least 3.5 mm. Talk to your nearest tire dealer if you’re unsure what tire is right for you.
  • Prepare your vehicle: Check lights and wipers, have an ice scraper and brush handy, top up washer fluid, and pack an emergency kit with food, water, warm clothes, a shovel, and traction mats in the event you get stuck in the snow.
  • Plan ahead: Consider not driving when conditions are poor. If you must drive, allow extra travel time to get to your destination and check drivebc.ca for road conditions and potential road closures along your route.
  • Drive for the conditions: Slow down, increase your following distance, and avoid sudden movements – like sharp turns, quick acceleration, and abrupt stops – when roads are slick and visibility is poor. Don’t use cruise control on slippery roads. By driving smoothly and performing maneuvers gradually, you’ll significantly decrease the chances of your vehicle losing traction on the road.
  • Stay alert: Nearly half of all crashes involving pedestrians happen between October and January in BC As a driver, look for pedestrians, especially at intersections and near transit stops, and stay focused by keeping your phone out of sight.