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ICBC: Avoid distractions, alcohol when driving this holiday season

Statistics from the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia show nine people are hurt in 35 crashes every hour in B.C. during the Christmas and New Year's holidays
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Planning a safe ride home is also essential over the holidays, particularly when alcohol may be served. Photograph By METRO CREATIVE

Nine people are hurt in 35 crashes every hour in B.C. during the Christmas and New Year's holidays, according to statistics from ICBC.

The provincial insurance corporation said drivers need to check their tires and make sure their vehicles are in good condition for the weather.

They also encourage motorists to slow down and avoid distractions when on the road.

Planning a safe ride home is also essential over the holidays, particularly when alcohol may be served.

"If your holiday festivities involve alcohol, plan ahead for a safe ride home," ICBC said in a release. "Arrange a designated driver, call a taxi, take transit or use Operation Red Nose (operationrednosetricities.com) where available. There's no excuse to drink and drive."

HOLIDAY CRASH STATISTICS

Across the province, on average one person is killed and 340 are injured in 1,200 crashes over the Christmas holidays every year (Dec. 24 to 26).

The majority of the incidents occur in the Lower Mainland, where 250 injuries occur in 780 crashes during the same time period.

The period around New Year's is also dangerous.

Across the province, one person is killed and 170 people are injured in 690 crashes between Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 while, in the Lower Mainland, 130 people are injured in 460 crashes.

gmckenna@tricitynews.com

@gmckennaTC