With summer just around the corner, it's important to remember to share the road with all types of vehicles.

Motorists should take extra caution when sharing the road with, or operating, semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and other commercial vehicles.

With summer approaching, roadways will become increasingly busy and the Alberta RCMP wants to remind commercial and passenger-vehicle motorists how to operate on provincial roads responsibly.

Here are some tips for passenger vehicle drivers according to the RCMP:

  • Stay far enough behind big trucks so that you can see both of its side mirrors. If you can’t see the truck driver, they can’t see you.
  • Increase your following distance behind larger vehicles so you can better see oncoming traffic.
  • Oncoming commercial vehicles can create strong wind gusts, large splashes in wet conditions, or sprays of debris. Practice defensive driving and brace when they are passing.
  • Leave extra space when passing or changing lanes in front of commercial vehicles as they require more time to slow down or come to a stop.
  • Stay back when large vehicles are indicating right or left, as they require a wide turning radius.

Here are some tips for Commercial vehicle drivers according to the RCMP:

  • Remember to complete trip inspections to ensure your vehicle is in proper operating condition.
  • Always carry the required inspection certificates.
  • Stay alert while driving and pull over when you’re feeling tired.
  • Enhance your safety by pre-planning your trip. Stay updated on roads, traffic, construction, and weather conditions.
  • Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
  • Be aware of your blind spots and make wide turns safely.
  • If you are hauling or transporting cargo, ensure that it is properly secure.

RCMP also provided some tips on how to keep recreation vehicles safe during the summer months:

  • Do not leave keys in or near the OHV when left unattended.
  • Store your OHV in a locked garage or shed, if possible.
  • Block your OHV with other vehicles so it can not be easily moved.
  • If you have security cameras, ensure that they are active—especially in the evening.
  • Keep track of serial numbers and have identifying photos should a theft occur.
  • Keep outdoor property lights on at night or use motion sensor lights.

Thieves are less likely to target your property if you make it harder and less accessible for them to steal. There was a total of 1,624 “Theft of Other Motor Vehicles” in Alberta RCMP jurisdiction in 2023, with 147 of them occurring in June.

Last month, the RCMP also reminded Albertans about the importance of avoiding unsafe driving. Over 2023, the Airdrie area saw 71 drivers charged with impaired driving, one of them being over the Victoria Day long weekend.

Also this summer, Airdrie RCMP will be back around the city on bicycles. This is the second year of the program, the first year was deemed successful by the Airdrie RCMP.

This year, the goal of the project is to engage with the youth and the general public positively while simultaneously addressing “nuisance” concerns from residents. The nuisance behaviour targeted included noise complaints, graffiti, car prowling and bridge jumping.

Once again they will be having their positive ticket campaign this year, MacPhail did not want to say exactly what they will be handing out as it will be a good surprise for those who receive them.

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