In British Columbia, the chances of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle incident dramatically increase during the winter driving season, from October 1 to March 31.

Driving for work

For those who drive for work, October, November, and December are the most dangerous months. Almost 30 percent of all work-related crashes resulting in injury and time-loss claims occur during these three months.

Shift into winter

Depending on where you drive in the province, winter road conditions vary, from snow and ice in the north and on high mountain passes, to rain and fog commonly found in the Lower Mainland and southern Vancouver Island. Drivers need to prepare for the possibility of changing road and weather conditions, and adapt.

All drivers should prepare now to stay safe on the roads this winter:

• Don't go — If conditions are bad, postpone your trip if possible.
• Plan your trip — If you have to travel, check road and weather conditions and select the safest route. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination to avoid rushing, and have an emergency plan if you get stuck.
• Prepare your vehicle — Install a set of four matched winter tires and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. Every year, be sure to give your vehicle a pre-season maintenance check-up.
• Slow down and drive to the conditions — Even the most confident and seasoned drivers are at risk in hazardous road conditions. Slow down to match road conditions and maintain a safe following distance, at least four seconds, between you and the vehicle ahead.
• For employers and supervisors — The Winter Driving Safety online course and Tool Kit on the Shift Into Winter website provides useful information for planning, implementing and monitoring a winter driving safety program.

Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca