ICBC is warning drivers to watch for driver fatigue ahead of the BC Day Long Weekend.
According to their data, hot temperatures and long drives can lead to fatigue, which can slow your reaction time while driving on highways, increasing the risk of crashing.
During the BC day long weekend, two people are killed and 562 people injured on average in 2,064 crashes in BC, with the number of people killed or injured in fatigue-related crashes being 58 percent higher in July and August.
Forn Vancouver Island, ICBC says 67 people are injured on average in 306 crashes every year.
They say with driver fatigue, there are warning signs to look for. Those include finding it difficult to stay in your lane, your driving speed creeping up or down, not recalling the last few minutes of driving, struggling to stay focused, feeling bored, daydreaming, or yawning, and struggling to keep your head up.
If you notice any of those signs, you should pull over in a safe spot to take a nap, with ICBC offering tips on how to prevent fatigue.
They recommend avoiding driving if you know you’re fatigued, avoid driving at times you would sleep, get at least 7 hours of sleep, understand the effects of your medication could have on your driving, and to take a break every 2 hours and switch drivers if possible.
