The RCMP Southeast District Traffic Services are concerned by the drastic increase in traffic fatalities in the Southeast portion of B.C.  in the first third of 2012.

With the upcoming May long weekend and official start of the summer high travel season, RCMP Traffic Services in the Southeast District are asking drivers to do their part in ensuring safer road travel for all.

Inspector Carol Bradley of the RCMP Southeast District Traffic Services stated:  “RCMP Traffic Services in the Southeast District have reviewed their findings regarding traffic collision fatalities for 2012 and to date a total of 35 people have lost their lives in roadway fatalities so far. This is an increase of 60% over the same 2011 time period. In reviewing these, several correctable causal factors potentially make all of these fatalities preventable.”
Keep an eye out for all road users
Out of the 35 deaths, 10 were either pedestrians, motorcyclists or cyclists which indicates to investigators that all road users need to pay closer attention to those that they are sharing the road with. Police are requesting motorists to be increasingly vigilant for these more vulnerable road users as with warm weather arriving, the frequency of all using our roadways will only increase. Pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists also need to pay attention to traffic laws and to use the roads in a manner that will reduce the risk of them being struck by a motor vehicle.
Cell phones and other handheld devices are distractions from the main task at hand, driving.
Distracted driving was another contributing factor, as 11 of the drivers involved in these 35 fatalities were either inattentive or distracted. Drivers should realize that the use of electronic devices while driving causes collisions and that their primary-focus should be on driving.

Slow down
Speed was a factor in 15 of the fatalities therefore drivers are encouraged to slow down and drive at a speed that allows for road conditions and other driver’s actions. Plan your travel time and don’t be rushed for the sake of trying to cut minutes off your travel time, when really, you could be cutting your entire life someone else’s life short.
Drinking and driving do not mix 
4 of the fatalities were alcohol attributed and police encourage all to find an alternative way home and do not drink and drive.

May 14 to May 20 is Canada Road Safety Week, which has a goal of making Canada’s roads the safest in the world. These tragic crashes could potentially have been prevented and serve as severe reminders for all drivers and road users to practice safe road habits. We would like to get the word out to motorists and other road users to be careful, be alert, and to do your part in taking responsibility for improving your own safety and the safety of others on our roads.

e-KNOW

Article Share