Holiday shopping season prompts ICBC warning of parking lot perils

Actress Melissa Benoist, who regularly films in Vancouver has posted a powerful message on Instagram which many people are speaking about. Isabelle Raghem has more.

By Lisa Steacy

Posted November 28, 2019 8:30 pm.

Last Updated November 28, 2019 9:41 pm.

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — As the holiday shopping season kicks off, ICBC is urging patience in parking lots which were the site of a staggering 96,000 collisions across the province last year.

That works out to more than 250 per day.

“ICBC is asking drivers to prioritize safety over finding the perfect parking spot,” says a news release. “Parking lots present drivers with other challenges such as increased congestion and heavy pedestrian activity. The holiday season could add a layer of distraction with people apt to be more preoccupied with their shopping list or finding a parking spot.”

Meantime, YVR is gearing up for Black Friday, warning shoppers and travellers to expect traffic congestion and delays.

The airport is expecting bargain hunters to descend on McArthurGlen Designer Outlet and people are being encouraged to leave their cars at home and take the Canada Line.

“We have a comprehensive plan in place but we are expecting heavy congestion throughout the day on Friday as well as over the weekend,” says a post on the airport website.

With an increase in traffic, competition for parking spots will be fierce and the airport is suggesting pre-booking and avoiding the lot closest to the outlets.

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