RCMP urge motorists to pay attention
Alberta’s highways are busy places in the summer with more people vacationing in or passing through the province.
The Alberta RCMP is reminding motorists the increase in traffic increases the risk of commercial and passenger vehicle collisions.
Every motorist has a significant part to play in ensuring they and others have a safe summer driving the highways.
“Sharing the road with other vehicles, no matter the type, is essential to keeping our roads safe,” said Gary Graham, Superintendent of Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “Large commercial vehicles can be dangerous if you are not aware of their limitations. They take longer to stop, have larger blind spots and may not see you.”
Drivers of regular vehicles are asked to pay extra attention to their blind spots and allow more time to pass without cutting off big commercial vehicles.
When behind a semi, make sure the mirrors on both sides are visible because of the time it takes them to stop.
Commercial vehicle drivers are reminded to keep up with their proper pre- and posttrip inspections to help ensure the vehicle is within the allowed weight limit and in good operating condition.
Off-highway vehicles such as ATVs are a popular activity in the summer, but off-road trails are still subject to the same laws as the highways. Wearing the proper safety gear, obeying the rules of the road, respecting the posted signs and age-appropriate use of ATVs will help reduce the chance of an incident or fine.
“Highway traffic is everyone’s business,” said Rick Gardner, Superintendent of Alberta Sheriffs Traffic Operations. “Driving off-road does not mean that you are not subject to the same laws. The majority of the collisions we deal with are still a result of speed, drivers impaired by drugs and/or alcohol, and not wearing appropriate gear.”
Operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs is a known dangerous practice that takes many lives each year but is still common on all roads. Impaired driving affects drivers of all vehicles, including offroaders with five ATV fatalities in 2016, three of which involved alcohol impairment.
Fatigue is also a form of impairment because it affects the ability to drive by slowing down the reaction time a driver has to an incident, decreased awareness and impairing judgment.
When travelling on the highways, ensure the trip is well planned and to make rest stops in designated areas when feeling fatigued.
Construction season is in its prime during the warm months and the Alberta RCMP reminds drivers that if they do not slow down and obey all signs that they could face doubled fines for speeding through a construction zone.