BC Interior Mounties remind drivers to use extra caution after several vehicle accidents

Mounties are encouraging people to use extra caution when travelling this winter after a significant vehicle accident in the Kootenay over the weekend.

On Saturday, Trail RCMP officers responded to a collision between a small pickup truck and a commercial transport truck on Highway 3B in Trail.

The 26-year-old woman was driving her truck westbound when the vehicle began to fishtail and slid into the path of the 35-year-old truck driver.

The collision caused both vehicles to end up off the highway and both drivers suffered head injuries that required medical attention at a nearby hospital.

The debris left behind from the accident was described as “extensive” and forced the closure of the highway for several hours as crews worked to clear the highway.

Officers believe the poor weather conditions and icy road were what caused the collision.

Over the weekend, winter driving conditions went into effect at all elevations across the west Kootenay and first responders responded to several accidents.

“Trail and Greater District RCMP would like to remind the public to slow down and drive to winter road conditions,” says a release.

“Road maintenance trucks need time to plow and sand roads so being prepared and driving defensively are your best tools against crashes this season.”

People are reminded to plan ahead, always check road and weather conditions, pack an emergency kit and give themselves extra time to get to their destination.