As National Road Safety Week kicks off summer driving season, the Province is asking drivers to help keep their families safe by following these driver safety tips.

National Road Safety Week, running from May 15 to 21, overlaps with Victoria Day long weekend, which is traditionally among the busiest and deadliest on B.C. roads and highways. As traffic volumes increase, so do the risks faced by motorists.

According to provincial statistics for the last five years, about three people die and 489 people are injured in over 1,700 crashes on B.C. roads over the three-day weekend. Between 2007 and 2011, the average numbers of crashes and injuries over the weekend, by region, were:

• Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley: 1,116 crashes, 342 injuries.
• North Central: 105 crashes, 19 injuries.
• Southern Interior: 280 crashes, 69 injuries.
• Vancouver Island: 230 crashes, 59 injuries.

B.C's high-risk drivers - those who drive while impaired, speed excessively or talk or text while driving - can expect to face some of the most severe penalties and fines in Canada.

Here are some safety tips to help drivers arrive at their destination safely:

• Plan a safe way home, such as a designated driver or taxi, if your weekend activities will involve alcohol. Remember that impairment begins with the first drink, and that drugs - including prescription drugs - can affect your ability to drive safely.
• Buckle up. Seatbelt use is the single most effective step you can take to protect yourself from death or serious injury in a collision. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is $167, and drivers can be fined $598 for operating their vehicle with more passengers than seatbelts.
• Slow down and stay calm. Speed and aggressive driving are among the main causes of fatal crashes.
• Plan ahead, keeping in mind that congestion, construction and road conditions may add to your travel time. View current webcam images on DriveBC at: www.drivebc.ca
• Eliminate distractions. Place calls before you leave and pull over to check maps. Drivers using a hand-held phone device are subject to a fine of $167 and drivers caught texting or emailing will receive three penalty points in addition to the fine.
• Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.
• Watch for motorcycles. Drivers need to recognize there are more riders on B.C. roads every year, particularly in spring and summer.

Contact:

Ministry of Justice
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 356-6961