Drive relative to conditions road check on Highway 5 (Coquihalla)
B.C., BC Highway Patrol
2022-11-09 07:00 PST
Fall arrived suddenly and with it, road conditions changed dramatically. As the daylight hours get shorter and the weather becomes more inclement, BC Highway Patrol is reminding motorists of a few things they can do to arrive safely at their destinations.
On Wednesday, November 9, BCHP will be conducting road checks along the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) in the area of the former tollbooth near the summit. Officers will be stopping drivers and checking vehicles to ensure motorists are safe and vehicles are properly equipped to meet winter driving conditions.
There is a heightened concern for traffic safety, particularly during the winter months,
said Inspector Dale Somerville, BCHP Central. The Coquihalla has extreme changes in weather and, with its high mountain passes, it’s always important to have the right equipment and be prepared for a worst-case scenario.
Proper equipment such as good winter tires, windows free of frost and snow, and using your headlights also increase your chances of avoiding collisions.
Here are a few tips to support drivers ensure a safe journey:
- Check your tires to ensure they are in good condition, have sufficient tread depth, and are properly inflated. Winter tread (including M&S tires) are required in BC.
- Turn your headlights to the
ON
position – this ensures your tail lights come on as well so you can be seen from behind. Make sure all your lights, signals and brake lights are fully functional. - Increase the distance between you and vehicles ahead to give yourself more time to stop, especially if it is raining, snowing, slippery, foggy, or it’s night time.
- Slow down, especially when your visibility is limited and road conditions are treacherous. Posted speed limits assume ideal driving conditions.
- Watch out for
black ice
as temperatures drop to freezing. - Ensure that you have enough windshield washer fluid to keep your windshield clear.
You may encounter some delays as a result of the road block.
Released by,
Sergeant Chris Manseau
District Advisory Non-Commissioned Officer (Media Relations),
Lower Mainland District, Communication Services
Royal Canadian Mounted Police E Division / Government of Canada
chris.manseau@rcmp-grc.gc.ca<mailto:chris.manseau@rcmp-grc.gc.ca>
Tel: 778-290-3791
Cell: 250-413-7954
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