With the Canada Day long weekend expected to drive a surge in traffic, road safety officials are warning that busy highways and active construction zones can create some of the highest risks of the summer season.
The holiday weekend typically marks the start of peak travel in B.C., with more drivers on the road at the same time as construction, maintenance and utility work ramps up in communities such as Fort St. John and Dawson Creek.
Road Safety at Work spokesperson Trace Acres said the overlap is a major concern.
“Summer season is often referred to as construction season, which means critical road maintenance and road building get done,” he said.
“You combine that with the Canada Day rush and the beginning of summer, it can significantly increase the risk posed to roadside workers.”
Acres said work zones can change quickly and require constant attention from drivers to reduced speed limits, traffic control and shifting traffic patterns.
According to ICBC, July averages more than 26,000 reported crashes across B.C., making it one of the province’s busiest driving months.
WorkSafeBC reports that between 2016 and 2025, 11 roadside workers were killed and more than 260 were seriously injured while on the job.
Drivers are being reminded to slow down in work zones, follow posted signs and obey traffic control personnel. Motorists must also follow B.C.’s “Slow Down, Move Over” law, reducing speed when passing vehicles with flashing lights.
Safety officials said slowing down and staying alert can help ensure both motorists and roadside workers get home safely this long weekend.
