Cops to focus on speed

Photo: Contributed - ICBC.

RCMP traffic officers in the North Okanagan will be focusing on speed this month as conditions begin to deteriorate heading into winter.

More police will be out on the roads, particularly in the evening and early morning hours, according to Sgt. Dave Bell of North Okanagan Traffic Services.

Bell points to recent heavy fog, which can decrease visibility, and he warns lower temperatures increase the risk of black ice and slippery conditions.

“Drivers need to slow down and exercise caution under these typical winter conditions,” said Bell.

Police will also be checking to ensure drivers have proper winter tires, especially if a crash occurs where speed and weather play a role.

Meanwhile, ICBC reports speed-related crashes that result in injury or fatality increase by more than 90 per cent between November and January – totalling more than 80 crashes in each of these months.

The corporation blames the spike on driving too fast for road conditions.

ICBC has issued five tips for winter driving, including:

• Ice and snow can hit unexpectedly so make sure tires are rated for winter conditions. Check tire pressure regularly – pressure drops in cold weather and overinflated tires can reduce gripping.
• When severe winter conditions arrive, consider alternatives – take public transit if possible, carpool with a confident driver whose vehicle is equipped for the conditions, take a taxi, work from home or wait until the road crews have cleared major roads.
• Consider using headlights whenever weather is poor and visibility is reduced – not only at night – to help see ahead and be seen by other drivers.
• Clear off any snow that's built up on vehicle's headlights and wheel wells before driving; it can affect the ability to see and steer.
• In poor weather, use extreme caution when approaching highway maintenance vehicles on the road and never pass on the right. Be patient and maintain a safe following distance.

"Speeding is the leading cause of fatal car crashes in our province," said Chief Const. Neil Dubord, head of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police traffic safety committee. "Drivers need to adjust their driving and ensure their vehicles are prepared for fall and winter conditions.”