WATCH ABOVE: Mounties urge Albertans not to drink and drive during the holidays.
CALGARY – RCMP are reminding Alberta drivers to stay safe during the holidays, and don’t drink and drive.
The warning comes after a serious crash on Hwy. 9 east of Calgary that claimed the life of a Strathmore woman.
The woman, 51, reportedly drove into the path of an oncoming semi.
“This time of year we do see an increase in serious injury and fatality collisions,” said Cst. Jason Curtis on Wednesday.
Watch: The first checkstops of the Christmas season are done and RCMP have stopped close to double the vehicles they checked in 2013
In fact, Mounties aren’t the only ones who’ve seen an increase in collisions on Alberta roads during the holidays.
The holidays are the most dangerous time of year on Alberta roads, according to new insurance statistics. Calgary is the most dangerous city of all.
According to Allstate Insurance, Calgary had the highest number of collisions in the province at 6.3 per cent.
Police said speed and aggressive driving continues to be a highway hazard and with more vehicles on the road and everyone in a hurry it’s a bad combination.
“We’re not paying attention to what’s going on around us. There’s great potential for injury and damage there,” said Cst. Curtis.
“When we’re close to home, we think we’re home safe or we’ve almost made it, we let our guard down a bit.”
Traffic officers warned drivers to anticipate unexpected moves by other drivers and to be prepared for winter conditions, breakdowns and long traffic delays.
“If you don’t leave enough space you don’t have time to react to any potential hazards that may come your way.”
Officers also recommend drivers pack extra food, water, clothes and an emergency kit.
If you’re headed through the mountains into British Columbia expect snow-covered, icy roads. Snow is in the forecast in high mountain passes.
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