For this winter season, make sure to give room to BC roadside workers while driving.
That comes from Road Safety at Work, saying that winter conditions make working in roadside zones more dangerous as drivers struggle to keep control because of slippery roads and poor visibility.
This results in drivers passing within a few meters of the workers.
According to Worksafe BC, nine roadside workers were killed and 251 were injured from 2014 to 2023 due to that risk.
Road Safety program director Trace Acres says everyone deserves the right to feel safe at work.
“When people work around traffic, they’re counting on drivers to give them plenty of room,” said Acres.
“Slowing down and moving over is a vital responsibility. Our driving decisions can help people working at the roadside make it home safe each day to their loved ones.”
Paramedic Sara Nelson says some drivers zoom right past her and other paramedics.
“It’s scary knowing that just one careless driver could put me or my patients in serious danger,” said Nelson.
To prevent more incidents, Road Safety offers tips for you to follow before driving.
They encourage you to slow down, drive with care, pay attention, leave your phone, obey road signs, traffic control signs and traffic control personnel.
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