Shift into Winter - Prepare yourself for winter driving

BURNABY, BC, Nov. 10 /CNW/ - Every day in British Columbia, workers are at risk of being injured or even killed while driving on the job. In fact, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of worker deaths in this province.

Workers face an even greater risk when they drive for work in winter conditions. WorkSafeBC and the British Columbia Automobile Association Traffic Safety Foundation remind working drivers that preparing themselves and their vehicles to navigate icy, slippery, and isolated roads can significantly reduce their risk of serious injury or death.

"Many people don't associate road safety with workplace safety," says Mark Ordeman, WorkSafeBC manager for Transportation. "Couriers, truck drivers, nurses, teachers, and many others use their vehicles for work purposes, and they're vulnerable to injury while driving on the job — especially in winter."

WorkSafeBC and the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation offer a few tips to help workers stay safe behind the wheel this winter.

• Check conditions before heading out. Listen to the radio or visit www.drivebc.ca for current road and weather conditions.
• Plan your route and give yourself lots of time. Avoid roads, streets, or highways that may be dangerous during bad weather. Adjust your schedule so you aren't rushing to get to where you are going. And remember to tell someone your scheduled route in advance.
• Learn and practice winter driving skills before you need them. Learn how to brake safely and how to get out of a skid. Know how your vehicle responds to winter road conditions.
• If you get stuck or stranded. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. If you have a cell phone, call a roadside assistance or local towing company. In an emergency, dial 911.

"These tips benefit all drivers, not just those who drive as part of their work," says Allan Lamb, the Foundation's executive director. "Employers need to prepare their drivers as well. More information about winter driving safety is available to help employers on both the WorkSafeBC and the foundation's websites. Fleet managers can download and print this information for distribution to their drivers and all staff."

Motor vehicle incidents (MVIs) are a leading cause of worker deaths in B.C. In 2009, 21 workers in B.C. lost their lives due to MVIs.

For more information about preparing yourself for winter driving, visit BCAATSF.ca or WorkSafeBC.com.

About the Partners

WorkSafeBC is an independent provincial statutory agency governed by a Board of Directors that serves about 2.1 million workers and more than 200,000 employers. WorkSafeBC was born from a historic compromise between B.C.'s workers and employers in 1917. Under that compromise, workers gave up the right to sue their employers and fellow workers for injuries on the job, and, in return, employers funded a no-fault insurance system. WorkSafeBC is committed to safe and healthy workplaces, and to providing return-to-work rehabilitation and legislated compensation benefits.

The BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation is a non-profit registered charity working with families, communities and business partners to reduce the number and severity of traffic crashes and injuries in B.C. by developing effective, community-oriented programs and interventions that make a difference. More information about the foundation is available at www.BCAATSF.ca or by calling 604-298-5107.

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