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Kamloops News

Drowsy drivers do have options

THOMPSON - OKANAGAN - July and August are peak months for driver fatigue-related incidents. While you may be bumper to bumper with everyone else rushing for the best beach spot, it’s important to recognize the signs of tired driving.

“Living in Kamloops, I know how hot B.C. summers can get,” says B.C. Minister of Transportation Todd Stone. “Please pay attention to the signs of fatigue, which can sneak up on you as the temperature rises.

While driver fatigue is hard to measure, ICBC conducted a survey on the topic and discovered 30 per cent of respondents admitted to falling asleep at the wheel.

Across the province on the B.C. long weekend an average of four people are killed while 530 others are injured in 1,900 crashes.

ICBC is recommending drivers plan their route and rest stops before taking the trip. If you get tired while driving, find a spot where you can safely pull over to take a break.

Some signs of fatigued driving include not noticing another vehicle until it passes you, yawning, day dreaming, uncontrolled driving speed, finding yourself wandering between lanes and eyes feeling heavy.

To combat the issue, it is recommended drivers take turns at the wheel. If you don’t have a passenger who can drive, pull over to take a nap. It’s better to arrive late than not at all.

To contact a reporter for this story, email gbrothen@infonews.ca, or call 250-319-7494. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.

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