By Charles Lefebvre

AMA reminding drivers to be cautious during long weekend

Jun 28, 2019 | 3:13 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Alberta Motor Association is reminding drivers to take precautions if they plan to hit the road on the Canada Day long weekend.

Wayne McLachlan, chief driving instructor for southern Alberta with AMA, says the long weekend tends to be one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.

“School is just finishing, and people are looking to get away to enjoy a long weekend and incorporate additional vacation time with it,” he said over the phone from Calgary.

“The additional thing too is, at this time of the year, people are wanting to get out there and enjoy their motor homes and their fifth wheels, and it adds to the excitement of the weekend.

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According to the provincial government, during the Canada Day long weekend in 2016 (the most recent year of data available), seven people were killed and more than 200 people were injured during collisions on Alberta’s highways.

Last year, the RCMP say there were three deaths and 46 injuries from motor vehicle collisions in RCMP jurisdictions on the Canada Day long weekend.

McLachlan says with the increased traffic on the roads, drivers need to take some extra precautions to ensure they arrive at their final destination safe.

“You want to leave yourself adequate following distance, and just planning your trip so you leave yourself some extra time to get to your destination safely,” he said. “Just a little extra dose of patience can be helpful.”

McLachlan adds it’s important for drivers to avoid distractions in their vehicles while driving, and says you should also ensure you’re not driving while fatigued.

“When that happens, your attention span isn’t working as well as it should be,” he said. “You’re not as alert. Allowing yourself enough time to have a rest and take breaks so that you can break up your drive if you’re travelling long distances, those are some of the key things.”

McLachlan says before you even hit the road, make sure your vehicle is in good working order.

“Make sure your tires are good, that you’ve topped up your washer fluid, make sure your car has been maintained so if you’re travelling in a variety of weather conditions. Thinking about all of the rainfall we’ve had, think about the condition of your tires and your speed so you don’t end up hydroplaning on wet highways.”