Drivers in British Colombia are being reminded to adjust their driving for changing road conditions as the weather worsens.
According to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), every year in the province the number of crashes due to driving too fast for the conditions increase by 90 per cent when comparing October to December.
In bad weather motorists are being urged to slow down, increase their following distance and allow extra travel time.
The ICBC has offered the following tips to drivers:
- Prepare your vehicle for the weather conditions you may encounter. Check that your vehicle’s headlights and taillights are in working order and keep wiper fluid topped up for clearer visibility. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, in good condition, and rated for the conditions you will be driving in.
- Keep an emergency ‘g​rab-and-go’ kit in your vehicle to help you and your passengers stay safe.
- If you find yourself on a road that’s flooded, the best choice is to turn around if you can do so safely.
- Floodwater can quickly sweep away vehicles. The maximum water depth you can drive a standard car through is about ten centimetres
- Posted speed limits are for ideal road conditions. When driving in bad weather, slow down. Allow yourself at least twice the normal braking distance on wet or slippery roads.
- Stay focused on the road and minimize distractions. Let phone calls go to voicemail and ignore your notifications while driving.
