12 fatal crashes in 5 days on southern Interior highways: BC chief coroner
Multiple fatal motor vehicle incidents occurred on British Columbia highways this week.
From July 5 to July 10, there have been a total of 19 vehicle-related fatalities on highways across the province, according to a Ministry of Public Safety media release.
"While so many of us look forward to summer trips, unfortunately, statistics show the risk of deadly motor-vehicle crashes is much greater in July, August and September," acting chief coroner John McNamee said in the release.
The incidents included both individual and multi-vehicle crashes.
Twelve of the 19 deaths occurred in three separate crashes in Interior Health region.
Last year, there were 331 vehicle related deaths across the province with over 100 of them taking place in the summer months.
"We extend our condolences to all affected by these tragedies. We know there are far-reaching impacts, as family and friends across the province, and beyond, mourn the loss of their loved ones," McNamee said.
BC Coroners Service encourages drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts, know the route in advance, and don’t drive distracted or inebriated.
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