Another Long Weekend, Another Blitz by RCMP

By 250 News

Prince George, B.C.-  Consider yourself warned.

The RCMP are putting  the word out, they will be on the highways, and they will be looking for speeders, or  impaired drivers.

All North District Traffic Services Units including the local Fraser Fort George Traffic Services Unit, the Prince George Municipal Traffic Section and the North District Integrated Road Safety Unit will implement an increased effort to ensure drivers who choose of drive erratically or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, have an increased chance of apprehension this weekend. If you're on the local highways and any other highway in the north, this weekend, expect to see a number of police enforcement units in all directions extending from Prince George. 

Historically, more people die in motor vehicle crashes on the B.C. Day long weekend than any other holiday weekend. From 2003 to 2007, 25 people died in collisions during the B.C. day long weekend. That is on average, five (5) deaths per year or more than one (1) a day.

Police say it is  easy to make sure  you  arrive alive:

1) Make sure you are well rested –the number of serious collisions resulting from motorist falling asleep rises dramatically in the summer months.
2) Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
3) Be courteous to other drivers – treat other drivers the way you want to be treated.
4) Do “not” drive aggressively
5) Make sure every occupant in your vehicle is wearing a seat belt.
6) Never get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or using drugs. 


                                                                
Police offer some advice to those who make the wrong choices this weekend:
a) If you choose to drink and drive, you should make sure your will is up to date.
b) If you choose to not wear your seatbelt, make sure your life insurance is paid up.
c) If you choose to drive when you’re tired, make sure you have your BC Care Card, as hospital staff will need it if you’re one of more than 260 people who will be injured as a result of a car crash.
d) If you choose to drive aggressively you should have the ICBC dial a claim number on speed dial to report the property damage collision you will most likely be involved in.

“Summer holidays are meant to be fun, unfortunately for many families it’s a tragic time. The month of July has been devastating - As of July 30th, thirty-nine people have lost their lives in B.C. Most of thecould have been avoided if only they had made the right choices.” says Sgt. Pat McTiernan of the North District Traffic Services Unit. “You still have a choice, make the right one and your family can have a safe and fun-filled long weekend. Don’t become a statistic.”The area traffic enforcement will once again be focused on Impaired Driving, ensuring everyone is using their Seat Belts, enforcing Aggressive Driving offences, with a zero tolerance approach. If you are stopped this weekend for an offence, you can expect to receive a violation ticket. 

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