The Victoria Day long weekend is a sure sign that summer is just around the corner, leading to increased traffic on roads and highways.

“Long weekends are a great time for socializing with friends and family and road trips,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Geoff MacLellan. “If you are planning to hit the road, please ignore your electronic devices, wear your seatbelt, obey the speed limit and never, ever drive while impaired.”

The safety of Nova Scotians and people travelling the province’s roads and highways is a priority for police.

“Our officers will be on the road this weekend to ensure that motorists are driving safely,” said Staff Sergeant Leanne MacDonald, officer in charge of the Nova Scotia RCMP Traffic Services Unit. “This Saturday is also National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day, and we’re reminding all drivers to plan ahead so that everyone can arrive home safely.”

Drivers are also urged to be patient and reduce their speed while travelling through road construction zones.

“Hundreds of Nova Scotians will be hard at work this construction season and we all play a role in keeping them safe,” said Mr. MacLellan.

The province works with road safety partners, including the RCMP, the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association and Safety Services Nova Scotia, to raise awareness and education about road safety.

For more information on road safety, go to: http://novascotia.ca/tran/roadsafety/roadsafety.asp.

Source: Release