ICBC: Drivers warned of unpredictable road conditions this Easter long weekend

April 05, 2023

Spring is here but it doesn't guarantee spring-like conditions on our roads. Unpredictable weather and a potential increase in traffic are challenges B.C. drivers may face if travelling over the upcoming Easter long weekend. ICBC is urging drivers to use caution if their Easter long weekend plan involves a road trip getaway or a visit with family and friends during the holiday.

Every Easter long weekend, an average of two people are killed and 610 are injured in 2,200 crashes throughout B.C.*

ICBC's top safety tips: 

• Examine your vehicle: If you're planning a long drive, check your engine oil, washer fluid, lights and inspect your vehicle tires, including the spare, to make sure they're in good condition and properly inflated before heading out. Pack an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you get stuck or stranded.

• Plan ahead: Plan your route ahead of time and visit drivebc.ca to check for road and weather conditions before starting your drive. Give yourself extra time and expect delays over the long weekend.

• Rest up: Make sure you've had plenty of sleep and you're well rested before heading out on a long drive. Take breaks or switch drivers if possible to avoid fatigue. If you need to, pull over at the nearest rest stop and take a nap before continuing on your journey.

• Adjust for bad weather: Road conditions can change suddenly on many routes in B.C. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to four seconds so you have more time to react in poor weather and road conditions. Avoid driving through flooded or washed out roads.

• Watch for motorcycles: As the weather improves, you'll notice more motorcyclists on the road. Keep in mind, motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles and it's harder to see them and judge their speed. It may be the motorcyclists' first ride of the year so use caution. Allow at least three or four seconds of following distance behind a motorcycle and plenty of lane space when passing.

• Lookout for wildlife: Watch for road signs indicating wildlife may be present. You may see animals feeding on plants near the roadside this spring. Be very alert at dusk and dawn when animals are most likely to be on the road.​​​​

Regional statistics:*

• On average, 450 people are injured in 1,400 crashes every year in the Lower Mainland over the Easter long weekend.

• On average, 66 people are injured in 330 crashes every year in the Southern Interior over the Easter long weekend.

• On average, 70 people are injured in 310 crashes every year on Vancouver Island over the Easter long weekend.

• On average, 21 people are injured in 130 crashes every year in the North Central region over the Easter long weekend. 

*Injury and crash numbers are based on ICBC data 2017 to 2021. Fatality data based on police data 2017 to 2021. Easter long weekend is calculated from 18:00 hours the Thursday prior to Good Friday until midnight Easter Monday.