With the holiday season in full swing, drivers are being reminded to slow down and drive safely.
Road Safety at Work, which manages the Shift into Winter campaign, says 24,534 crashes were reported to ICBC in December 2023, with 16,203, or two thirds, in the Lower Mainland.
ICBC data shows Burnaby recorded the third most crashes in the region during that time period, with 1,561 incidents reported.
The only two cities with more reported incidents were Vancouver (3,903) and Surrey (2,959).
“Rushing to your destination while driving might seem like a way to save time when you’ve got a lot to do, but it greatly increases the risk of a crash," Road Safety at Work program director Trace Acres said in a news release.
"Slowing down and giving yourself extra time is one of the best ways to help ensure you and your loved ones travel safely this holiday season."
Road Safety at Work says road and weather conditions can change quickly in the Lower Mainland. This, along with less daylight hours and holiday stress, can slow reaction time.
The organization said WorkSafeBC data also showed that work-related crashes increase by 26 per cent in the winter months.
Road Safety at Work is offering additional driving tips as part of National Safe Driving Week from Dec. 1 to 7:
- Avoid driving when conditions are poor. They may worsen in an hour or two
- Know before you go by checking DriveBC.ca for road conditions and weather updates
- Leave more space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, so you have more time to react to other drivers
- Use winter tires even if you’re in an area with little snow. They provide better traction in cold temperatures and on slippery roads
- Leave your phone alone
- Be fully rested before long drives. Fatigue can be as dangerous as impaired driving, especially on dark, icy roads.
- Take extra care in busy parking lots, especially after dark
- Follow your organization’s safe driving procedures if you drive on the job
