Stay safe on Alberta roads this Canada Day

EDMONTON- Across the province, Albertans will hit the road this weekend to enjoy Canada Day festivities.

Motorists can expect increased traffic volumes and slower traffic flow on most roads and highways.

This year, police expect Banff, Jasper and Waterton Lakes national parks to be busier than usual, with thousands making their way from across the country to celebrate Canada’s 150th and discover the what the parks have to offer.

“Traffic safety within the national parks is just as important as it is anywhere else,” says Superintendent Rick Gardner, Alberta Traffic Sheriffs. “It does, however, include unique scenarios that drivers may not encounter when driving in more urban areas.  Frequent stopping, the presence of wildlife and driving through unfamiliar surroundings are all factors to be aware of when travelling through Alberta’s national parks.”

In 2016, there were 463 motor vehicle collisions, 486 speeding violations and 30 impaired driving by alcohol charges in Banff National Park.

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In the Jasper Municipal Detachment area, there were 223 collisions of which one was fatal.

In Waterton Lakes National Park, there were 14 motor vehicle collisions and one fatality.

Here are just a few safety reminders for motorists visiting the national parks:

– Respect posted speed limits to avoid collisions with other vehicles and wildlife.
– Vehicles stop frequently to take in the sights and take pictures. Make sure to stop and pull over only when it is safe to do so and in a manner that will not obstruct traffic.
– Although it is easy to get distracted by unfamiliar surroundings and beautiful landscapes, stay focused on the road and alert to other vehicles.
– Pass other vehicles only when it is safe to do so.

Our goal ahead of Canada 150 celebrations this weekend is for everyone to be able to enjoy the holiday and safely get to their destinations,” says Steve Daley, Acting Officer in Charge, Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “This means exercising safe driving behaviours like driving sober, putting away cell phones or other distractions, respecting posted speed limits and driving according to traffic and weather conditions.”