May long weekend brings increased risk of collisions: ICBC

The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia is asking people to be safe and cautious when travelling over the May Long Weekend.

Data from ICBC shows that, on average, there are 1,800 crashes throughout the province over the three-day weekend, resulting in 480 people being injured and three deaths.

The Crown corporation stats for the Interior show an average of 63 people being injured in 270 collisions over the Victoria Day long weekend.

Police are conducting a provincewide enforcement blitz to target speeders as part of a monthly campaign.

ICBC noted that speeding increases the risk of crashing and is the leading cause of motor vehicle collision fatalities in B.C., resulting in eight people being killed every month from May through September.

ICBC recommends people plan their route and allow extra travel time, adding that posted speed limits are the maximum for ideal road conditions, and people are advised to slow down on wet roads or in poor weather conditions.

The insurance corporation also asks people to not speed up when someone is trying to pass and to allow a safe gap in front of them for other drivers to move into.

ICBC pointed out that distracted driving is one of the most common causes of crashes in B.C., and asks people to avoid their devices or other distractions, and to keep their eyes on the road.