ICBC warns you to drive carefully on Thanksgiving long weekend
Posted October 10, 2015 8:22 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – As tens of thousands of people hit the road this Thanksgiving long weekend, it comes with a serious warning; there is an uptick in car accidents.
Every Thanksgiving, ICBC says there are more than 1,000 crashes across the Lower Mainland which leaves hundreds of people injured.
Joanna Linsagan with the crown corporation says impaired and distracted driving, as always, are major factors. “But also something that we do see, especially during the fall and winter seasons, is people who are driving too fast for the conditions and then also the weather and the impact that has on driving conditions.”
If you are leaving the city, you have to have winter tires — if you don’t, you could be fined up to about $370.
“Winter tires are incredibly helpful because all-seasons tend to lose their grip below 7 degrees. Winter tires are much more flexible and have much more traction for snowy and icy conditions,” she adds.
Winter tires are required until March 31st.
If you are leaving Metro Vancouver, you should also make sure your car is ready for the trip. Check your engine oil, washer fluid, and the condition of your windshield wipers.
Regional statistics from ICBC (between 2009-2013)
- On the Lower Mainland, about 370 people are injured 1,100 crashes
- In the Southern Interior, about 58 people are injured in 260 crashes
- On Vancouver Island, about 66 people are injured in 250 crashes
- In the North Central region, about 18 people are injured in 130 crashes
