An RCMP officer checking for speeders on Highway 63 south of Fort McMurray. Photo provided by the RCMP
EDMONTON — Alberta RCMP are urging motorists to make safety a priority as increased traffic is expected on provincial roads during the Heritage Day long weekend.
Police say collisions are more common during the summer months as traffic volumes and speeds increase and more motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians take to Alberta roads.
RCMP will conduct targeted traffic enforcement throughout the long weekend, focusing on motorists who put themselves and others at risk.
“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.”
Police are reminding drivers not to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs and to arrange a safe way home if they are impaired.
Motorists are also being asked to eliminate distractions. RCMP say distracted driving extends beyond using a cellphone and can include adjusting navigation or audio systems, grooming, reading or attending to passengers and pets.
Drivers should also adjust their speed for weather, road and traffic conditions rather than treating the posted limit as appropriate under all circumstances.
RCMP are reminding everyone in a vehicle to wear a seatbelt or use an appropriate child safety seat.
With more cyclists, pedestrians and off-highway vehicles sharing roads during the summer, motorists are also being encouraged to check blind spots and remain aware of other road users.
People heading out on longer trips should tell family or friends where they are going, which route they plan to take and when they expect to arrive.
RCMP say anyone who witnesses dangerous driving should call 911.
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