By Greg Fry

‘Tis the season for car crashes: ICBC

Dec 20, 2017 | 9:49 AM

KAMLOOPS — ICBC is reminding motorists across the province to be careful when behind the wheel this holiday season.

“During the hoildays, an average of 340 people are injured in 1,200 crashes in B.C.,” says the public auto insurer in a release. “That’s 22 crashes and six people injured every hour from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day alone.”

With that in mind, ICBC says drivers should be prepared for the varied winter road conditions they’ll encounter and to ask themselves the following questions before starting their cars.

• Is my vehicle ready? Motorists are reminded to ensure they have winter tires installed and to top up wiper fluid and pack an emergency kit before heading out.
• Am I completely focused on the road? Pay attention to the road. You’re five times more likely to crash if you’re using your hand-held phone.
• Do I have enough space to stop safely? Posted speed limits are set for ideal conditions only so adjust your speed for the conditions.
• How am I getting home? Don’t drink and drive, take a taxi, public transportation, or use Operation Red Nose instead.

ICBC says in the Southern Interior an average of 40 people are injured in 170 crashes during the Christmas holidays (defined as between 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve to midnight on Boxing Day) every year.

Boogie The Bridge

Boogie The Bridge Event Information

5h ago

Two and Out

PETERS: The Loop's eviction will show us what happens when a bandage is ripped off a gaping wound

2h ago

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: 'Fairness' is not a word I would use to describe the federal budget

9h ago