Public Safety

Impaired driving the focus of National Safe Driving Week (06/11/30)

NB 1485

Nov. 30, 2006

FREDERICTON (CNB) - Impaired driving will be the focus of National Safe Driving Week, taking place from Dec. 1-7, Public Safety Minister John Foran announced today.

Sponsored by the Canada Safety Council, the purpose of National Safe Driving Week is to raise public awareness about targeted driver-safety issues. Throughout the week, commercial vehicle enforcement staff of the Department of Public Safety, the RCMP, and regional and municipal police forces across the province will be holding road checks to educate the public about the consequences of impaired driving.

"Reducing the number of people killed and injured by impaired drivers is a key component of Road Safety Vision 2010," Foran said. "Drivers can be impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue. In New Brunswick in 2004, of the 93 drivers involved in collisions that resulted in fatalities, 16 had been drinking or were impaired, and five fell asleep."

Road Safety Vision 2010 is a federal-provincial-territorial commitment to make Canada's roads the safest in the world by 2010.

"We all have a responsibility to drive safely and to obey the rules of the road," Foran said. "At this time of year it is also important to adjust your speed to winter road conditions."

06/11/30

EDITOR'S NOTE: Background information follows. MEDIA CONTACT: Lisa Harrity, media relations, Public Safety, 506-444-5267.

Road Safety Vision 2010

Reducing cases of impaired driving is a priority for the province, as is increasing the use of seatbelts and reducing incidences of speeding. These are among the objectives of Road Safety Vision 2010, a federal-provincial-territorial commitment to make Canada's roads the safest in the world by 2010.

New Brunswickers should always obey the safety rules of the road:

• always wear a seat belt;
• never drive while impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue;
• adjust your speed to road conditions;
• pay attention and avoid driver distraction; and
• be alert for pedestrians.

Winter Safety Driving Tips

• Don't be caught unprepared for the first blast of winter weather. Before the snow flies have a reputable garage do a tune-up and inspection of your vehicle to prevent problems. Be sure to check the windshield wiper blades.
• Install four snow tires - don't depend on all-season tires. This will help maintain control and stability of your vehicle in slippery conditions. Make sure that the tires are properly inflated; tire pressure decreases as temperatures drop, and under-inflation reduces grip. In New Brunswick, you are allowed to have studded tires between Oct. 15 - May 1.
• Before you leave your driveway, scrape the ice and snow from every window and the exterior rear view mirrors, not just a small patch on the windshield. Don't forget to remove snow from headlights and brake lights.
• Increase following distance in slippery conditions, and use your brakes lightly. Remember: condensation can freeze on the road, causing a layer of nearly invisible black ice. Review how to react in the event of a skid.
• Reduce your speed in snowy, rainy or slushy conditions. If possible, choose not to drive in stormy weather.
• Always wear your seatbelt, and ensure that all passengers are buckled up. Adjust your head rest to protect your neck in case your vehicle is struck from behind.
• Keep your gas tank at least half-full. The extra volume can help reduce moisture problems in your fuel system, and adds helpful weight to your vehicle. In rear-wheel vehicles, extra weight in the trunk or truck bed may be helpful. Use care; unsecured weight can shift while you are moving, or if you have to stop suddenly. Bags of sand can provide weight, and if sprinkled on ice, sand helps provide traction.
• When travelling, tell people of your destination and expected time of arrival. Carry warm clothes and an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you are stalled or have an accident.

06/11/30