Prince George, B.C. – It is the first long  weekend  when drivers  expect road conditions to be  good,  and warmer weather is hoped for.

It  is also  the long weekend which  has, historically,  seen  an average of 17 people injured in 100 crashes throughout the north-central region.

The RCMP`s Fraser Fort George Traffic Services are  sending out  the advisory that they will have officers on the highways this weekend, and they will be targetting high risk drivers.

Police will be targeting the “Big 4 killers” on our roads:

1. Impaired operation by alcohol or drug,
2. failure or improper use of seatbelts,
3. distracted and
4. aggressive driving which includes failing to yield, speeding, following too closely and ignoring a traffic control device.

While some may consider these driving behaviours harmless, they contribute to almost half (44 per cent) of all police-reported crashes that result in injuries or fatalities on our roads.

Some helpful tips to  follow before heading out:

• Think ahead: If you’ll be taking a road trip, check the road and weather conditions for your entire trip at drivebc.ca before you head out. Even if the roads look clear, be realistic about your travel times since there will be more vehicles on our highways. Plan rest stops every couple of hours to avoid becoming fatigued while driving.
• Get your vehicle ready: Long trips can be hard on your vehicle, so make sure it’s up to the drive. It’s a great time of year to give your vehicle a good check-up. Remember to check your engine oil, washer fluid and lights. Take a look at your tires too, including the spare, to make sure they are in good condition and properly inflated.
• Watch out for vulnerable road users: Warmer spring weather encourages more motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians on our roads. We all need to share our roads together safely. As a driver, we have a particular responsibility to help keep vulnerable road users safe so actively watch for other road users and make eye contact with them so they know that you see them.
• Keep your distance: Whether you’re going on a long or short trip, always maintain a safe travelling distance between vehicles. Allow at least two seconds of following distance in good weather and road conditions, and at least three seconds on high-speed roads or if you’re behind a motorcycle since it has a much shorter stopping distance.

“As you travel this long weekend – Don’t take risks while driving that will endanger yourself or others`says Sergeant Al Steinhauser, NCO-Operations  for Fraser Fort George Traffic Services.  `Please slow down, think twice and arrive safely. For those that disregard the rules of the road, remember police will be out in full force across the province this long weekend targeting high-risk driving behaviours so that our roads stay safe for everyone.”