For many this is the most wonderful time of the year, but statistics show that December is also one of the most dangerous times for B.C. drivers.
Over the last five years, an average of 25,993 crashes were reported to ICBC during the month of December, which works out to nearly 35 crashes every hour, every day. The combination of holiday hustle (including shopping trips, social events, and visits to loved ones), winter weather, and rapidly changing road conditions make it risky behind the wheel.
Not surprisingly, the Lower Mainland (the southwest corner of mainland B.C. from Pemberton to Boston Bar, including the Fraser Valley, Greater Vancouver, and southern Sunshine Coast) sees the most crashes, with an average of 16,760 each December. The Southern Interior (the southern third of the province, including the Kamloops area and the Okanagan and Kootenay regions) sees an average of 3,929 crashes; Vancouver Island sees an average of 3,528 crashes; and North Central B.C. (from 100 Mile House north) sees an average of 1,651 crashes.
“Holiday plans bring good good cheer, but they also bring more chances for things to go wrong on the road,” says Trace Acres, spokesperson for Road Safety at Work’s annual Winter Driving Safety campaign. “Whether you’re heading out for shopping or to see a client, the risks increase significantly.”
The holiday rush is now kicking into high gear, just in time for national Safe Driving Week (Dec. 1–7). Making road safety a priority in December is essential because of the variety of factors that challenge even experienced drivers. “Cold weather, wet roads, darkness, fatigue, and rushing to fit everything into a day all add up,” Acres says.
Many drivers assume winter risk refers only to snow, but traction can vanish long before flakes fall. When the temperature drops below 7 C, the rubber in summer or all-season tires hardens, reducing grip and lengthening stopping distances. Winter-rated tires — which are mandatory on many B.C. highways during the winter months — provide better performance.
“Anti-lock brakes and traction control can’t help if your tires can’t grip,” Acres says.
Most crashes are preventable, even at this time of year. Road Safety at Work encourages everyone who drives — whether for personal reasons or as part of their job — to take some simple steps to keep themselves and their passengers safe:
• Plan ahead: Check road conditions at www.drivebc.ca and delay trips when weather or road conditions look poor.
• Be alert to changing conditions: Localized weather patterns, a sudden snowstorm, or even a change in elevation can mean that road conditions alter dramatically and quickly. A route can go from clear to foggy in the blink of an eye, so be prepared for such changes.
• Slow down and leave space: Posted speed limits apply to ideal conditions. When roads are wet, dark, or icy, reduce speed and leave more room between yourself and the vehicle ahead. On highways, leave at least four seconds of following distance.
• Know the danger spots: Shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses freeze sooner than other sections of road and can take longer to thaw, so slow down when you approach them.
• Prepare your vehicle: Use winter-rated tires with at least 3.5 mm tread depth, make sure tires are properly inflated, and carry an emergency kit in case you’re stranded. Check lights and wipers, have an ice scraper and brush handy, and top up washer fluid.
• Stay alert and focus on driving: Avoid fatigue by resting before long drives. Don’t use your phone while driving (even hands-free operation can distract you).
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your loved ones that won’t cost a thing, think about road safety. “Safe driving is the gift everyone can give,” says Acres.