The Alberta RCMP is urging motorists to prioritize safety behind the wheel as traffic volumes surge for the Heritage Day long weekend.
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Mounties warned that motor vehicle collisions peak during the summer months due to higher traffic volumes, increased speeds and more vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians, sharing the roads.
To curb dangerous behaviour, police will conduct targeted enforcement across provincial roadways throughout the long weekend.
“No one is the exception when it comes to road safety,” said Sgt. Darrin Turnbull of Alberta RCMP traffic services. “Whether you’re heading across town or across the province, make safe choices behind the wheel. If you see any dangerous driving, call 911 immediately.”
Police recommend motorists take the following precautions before heading out:
- Drive sober: Plan a safe ride home ahead of time. Drugs and alcohol impair judgment, co-ordination and reaction times.
- Eliminate distractions: Focus fully on driving. Distractions extend beyond cellphones to include grooming, adjusting GPS or audio equipment and attending to pets or passengers.
- Adjust speed for conditions: Posted speed limits apply only to ideal driving conditions. Drivers should slow down for poor weather, road hazards or heavy traffic.
- Use seatbelts: Ensure driver and passengers are properly secured in seatbelts or age-appropriate child restraint systems before driving.
- Watch for vulnerable road users: Always check blind spots for cyclists, pedestrians and off-highway vehicles, which see increased activity during summer.
- Share travel plans: For long-distance trips, inform family or friends of your route and estimated arrival time.
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