WITH the latest storm to hit the Lower Mainland, road conditions continue to be challenging across the region, said ICBC on Wednesday.

Crashes are at an all-time high in B.C. and during the winter months, crashes reach their highest point of the year. In the Lower Mainland, 150 casualty crashes occur in February due to driving too fast for the conditions or road / weather conditions.

During these winter road conditions, ICBC is urging drivers to do their part to prevent crashes by adjusting their driving and properly equipping their vehicle for the road conditions.

In bad weather, slow down, increase your following distance and allow extra travel time.

Top Drive Smart tips:

• Ice and snow can hit unexpectedly so make sure your tires are rated for the conditions you’re driving in. Check your tire pressure regularly – pressure drops in cold weather and overinflated tires can reduce gripping.

• Clear off any snow that’s built up on your vehicle before driving including headlights, wheel wells and external sensors if you have a collision warning system.

• Consider using your headlights and taillights whenever weather is poor and visibility is reduced – not only at night – to help you see ahead and be seen by other drivers. Keep in mind that daytime running lights usually don’t activate your taillights.

• When severe winter weather hits, consider alternatives – take public transit if possible, carpool with a confident driver whose vehicle is equipped for the conditions, take a taxi, work from home or at least wait until the road crews have cleared major roads. Sometimes the best option is to leave the car at home.

• Be aware of black ice when temperatures near freezing. If you notice ice build-up on your windshield, there’s likely black ice on the road. Black ice is commonly found in shaded areas, bridges, overpasses and intersections. Slow down and increase your following distance.

• In poor weather, use extreme caution around snow plows. Maintain a safe following distance and don’t pass them – it’s not safe. These vehicles may be equipped with a wing blade on either of its sides which may not be visible due to the snow it sprays.

For detailed tips on how to drive in winter weather, visit icbc.com or ShiftIntoWinter.ca.