ICBC asks drivers to use extra care while travelling this Easter long weekend

March 27, 2024

As temperatures warm up across the province, we’re reminding road trippers that weather conditions can be unpredictable at this time of year. Easter long weekend also coincides with spring break for many B.C. students this year and so drivers should use caution on the road – especially if their plans involve a getaway or visiting family and friends, as increased traffic can also pose challenges for those travelling.

Every Easter long weekend, on average, one person is killed and 578 are injured in 2,176 crashes throughout B.C.

ICBC’s top safety tips for drivers:

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

• Get some rest. Make sure you're well rested before heading out on a long drive. Take breaks or switch drivers if possible to avoid fatigue. During longer trips, use highway rest stops to stretch, take a break and check messages on your phone. If you need to, take a nap before continuing your journey.

• Check your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is ready for the road. 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. Keep in mind that if you’re travelling through mountain passes, many B.C. highways still require winter tires. Pack an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you get stuck or stranded.

• Avoid distractions. Always leave your phone alone and avoid distractions while driving – even quick glances away from the road increase your risk of crashing. Make important calls and program your GPS before you begin driving.

• Adjust your driving for the conditions. Road conditions can change suddenly on many routes in B.C. Remember that small changes in how you drive can have a big impact, and driving at a lower speed will give you more time to react in poor weather and road conditions.

• Watch for motorcycles. As the weather improves, you'll notice more motorcyclists on the road. Keep in mind, motorcycles are much smaller than vehicles and it's harder to see them and judge their speed. Stay alert and yield right-of-way appropriately, especially at intersections and when changing lanes. Allow at least three or four seconds of following distance behind a motorcycle and plenty of lane space when passing.

• Lookout for wildlife. You may see wildlife while travelling B.C. roads this spring. Watch for warning signs, which are posted at areas where animals are likely to be on the road. Be extra careful at dusk and dawn when animals are generally more active.

Regional statistics:*

• On average, 430 people are injured in 1,407 crashes every year in the

  Lower Mainland over the Easter long weekend.

• On average, 67 people are injured in 289 crashes every year on

  Vancouver Island over the Easter long weekend.

• On average, 60 people are injured in 313 crashes every year in the

  Southern Interior over the Easter long weekend.

• On average, 18 people are injured in 124 crashes every year in the

  North Central region over the Easter long weekend.

*Injury and crash numbers are based on ICBC data 2018 to 2022. Fatality data based on police data 2018 to 2022. Easter long weekend is calculated from 18:00 hours the Thursday prior to Good Friday until midnight Easter Monday.