With many people taking road trips to visit friends and family over the coming weeks, ICBC is urging drivers to use caution and prepare before hitting the road.
According to ICBC, December sees more crashes than any other month across the province.
On average, 457 people are injured, and two people are killed in 1,772 crashes in B.C. between Christmas and New Year’s.
ICBC says that over the Christmas holidays, defined as Dec. 24-26, on average one person is killed and 33 people are injured in 158 crashes on Vancouver Island.
Every New Year’s, defined by ICBC as Dec. 31-Jan. 1, 22 people are injured in 80 crashes on the Island.
The insurance company said drivers need to be extra cautious on the busy roads over the holidays to help prevent collisions.
Drivers are encouraged to prepare their vehicles for winter driving conditions by changing over to tires with either the mountain/snowflake symbol or the mud and snow (M+S) designation, topping up wiper fluid and packing an emergency kit.
Those travelling are also encouraged to check all road conditions on DriveBC before hitting the highway.
While on the road, ICBC said drivers should reduce their speed, keep their eyes on the road and take breaks during longer trips to rest and stretch.
Those running errands are reminded to be alert in parking lots as they will be busy with other vehicles and pedestrians, creating a higher risk for crashes.
READ MORE: ICBC launches awareness campaign to cut parking lot crashes
If celebrations involve alcohol or other drugs, residents are asked to plan ahead for a safe ride home.
ICBC recommends assigning a designated driver, booking a taxi or ride-share service, taking transit or calling a service that drives both the vehicle and the driver home safe.
Police are working with ICBC to conduct CounterAttack checks across the province with a focus on removing impaired drivers from the streets.
RELATED ARTICLE: Reports from public lead to catching two impaired drivers: Oak Bay Police
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