With the long weekend around the corner, the Mounties want to make sure you’re looking both ways when it arrives.
While urging motorists to report dangerous driving by phoning 911, Sgt. Darrin Turnbull of Alberta RCMP Traffic offered some tips for travellers Friday.
In addition to the classic trio of driving sober and well-rested, buckling up and obeying the speed limit, try to keep the following in mind on the road:
- Make sure your vehicle and equipment are in good working order.
- Ensure your trailer is properly connected and within acceptable weight limits of your combined vehicle weight rating.
- Leave with plenty of time to get to your destination. If you’re running late, prioritize getting there safer, not faster.
- Eliminate distractions by placing your mobile phone in your glove box or centre console out of reach.
Officers will be on patrol watching out for folks who aren't. In 2023, Mounties across Alberta issued more than 2,000 tickets, including 50 for unfastened seatbelts.
“Last year, we issued 1,124 speeding tickets, 41 tickets for distracted driving, and 46 for liquor and cannabis offenses,” Turnbull said. “We will be out again this year working to keep people safe. I hope our reported numbers are much lower this year.”
