December 2004 Regional News Releases

Auto thieves target holiday shoppers — December 14
New light signals traffic pattern change — December 14
Get Home Safe for the holidays — December 6

Auto thieves target holiday shoppers

With the Christmas shopping season in high gear, parcels left in vehicles are a tempting target for would-be thieves. ICBC reminds people to protect themselves and their belongings.

In December 2004 there were over 1000 vehicle break-ins reported to ICBC in the Fraser Valley region. These crimes can happen quickly, and in places that might seem safe.

"Even in busy places like shopping centre parking lots, would-be thieves are watching for people who leave valuables in their car," says ICBC's Aileen Shibata, Regional Loss Prevention Manager in the Fraser Valley. "People can help foil these grinches by following some basic safety tips."

For January through December 2004, break-ins resulted in claims costs to ICBC of over $7.8 million in the Fraser Valley region.

To prevent auto crime, shoppers are reminded not to leave anything in their vehicle. It is best to leave parcels with customer service or carry them. If parcels must be left in the vehicle, place them in the trunk and move the vehicle to another location before returning to shop.

To help customers prevent auto crime and enhance their shopping experience, ICBC and participating shopping centres are offering free Christmas shopping bags so shoppers can keep their belongings safely with them. The bags are available from mall ambassadors and volunteers at participating shopping centres.

Vehicle owners can prevent auto crime by following these tips:

Remember: Thieves don't take holidays, but they will take your presents! Don't leave valuables in your vehicle.

Robin Robber Shopping bags are available from:

Note: ICBC's Fraser Valley Region includes the communities of Richmond, Delta, Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Abbotsford, Mission, Agassiz, Chilliwack, Hope and Boston Bar.

For more information contact:
Eric Green
604-592-6419

New light signals traffic pattern change

A new "protected left turn signal" at the intersection of Koksilah Road and the Trans Canada Highway is intended to make that intersection safer. On the recommendation of the Cowichan Valley Traffic Safety Committee, the Ministry of Transportation completed the installation of the traffic signal earlier this fall but observations have shown that some drivers are still making the turn against the light.

The new signal affects north and southbound traffic on the Trans Canada Highway. A protected left-turn signal only allows traffic to make a left turn when the green arrow is flashing. If the green arrow is not flashing then drivers are not allowed to make the turn.

"Whenever there is a traffic pattern change, there is always a period of adjustment," says ICBC's Community Manager for Duncan, and Chair of the Cowichan Valley Traffic Safety Committee, Paul McNicholls. "But we hope that people will recognize there is a new signal there, designed to improve road safety, and get out of their old habits at this intersection. It is an easy change, only turn left when the green arrow is flashing."

The intersection at Koksilah Road and the Highway was the site of a double fatality in 2004 which sparked the discussion of how to make it safer. The protected left turn signal for traffic heading north and south on the highway is considered an improvement but only if drivers obey the new signal.

The Cowichan Valley Traffic Safety Committee consists of representatives from the RCMP, Cowichan Valley Regional District, Ministry of Transportation, City of Duncan, Municipality of North Cowichan, School District 79, ICBC, Cowichan Tribes, Community Policing and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement.

For more information contact:
Paul McNicholls
250-709-3402

Get Home Safe for the holidays — December 6

Despite decades of impaired driving awareness, drinking drivers are still responsible for approximately one in 10 police-attended injury collisions in BC. And about one of every four fatal crashes that takes place on our roads involves alcohol. So ICBC is asking the public this holiday season: "When will you stop drinking and driving?"

"Last year on Vancouver Island, we had about 900 impaired driving incidents which resulted in over 600 injuries," says ICBC Loss Prevention Manager for the Island, Lyall Woznesensky. "That is a lot of our friends, family and neighbours who are still getting behind the wheel after drinking."

This holiday season, ICBC is urging all Island residents to think about the consequences of impaired driving and do whatever is necessary to ensure that festivities include plans for a safe ride home. While impaired driving still results in an unacceptable number of crashes, there are other consequences for consideration as well. Having your vehicle impounded, paying stiff fines or facing jail time with the promise of a criminal record for life, could all have a serious effect on your holidays, not to mention the rest of your life.

CounterAttack road checks will take place this holiday season as they have since 1977. If you expect to drink, don't take any chances. Plan ahead to get home safely. Take a bus, call a cab, arrange for a designated driver or phone someone for a ride. If you are planning a party or gathering, make sure all your guests have a safe way to travel or insist that they stay. Don't push alcohol on guests and always have plenty of non-alcoholic options available.

Young people, especially males are most likely to be involved in an alcohol-related crash. Ensure your friends and family are safe this holiday season so that this festive time can be full of joyful memories and peaceful times.

For more information check out www.icbc.com

top

close