AMA asks you to "Bring 'em Back Alive" this Victoria Day weekend

Edmonton - For many Albertans, the Victoria Day long weekend and upcoming summer travel season means getting out on Alberta roads to enjoy the weather and some much needed rest and relaxation. AMA is reminding drivers to stay safe on the roads this long weekend with these helpful tips:

Watch your speed
• Slow down, follow the speed limit and plan your trip ahead of time.  Not only will it help you to arrive at your destination safely, but it will also save you money at the gas pump. 
• Avoid speeding, tailgating, sudden braking and accelerating as this will increase your fuel consumption.
• Slow down for emergency vehicles with their lights flashing and when travelling through construction zones. 

Drive rested
• Make sure you get enough sleep the night before and share the driving. Having little or no sleep for 17-19 hours is comparable to driving impaired.
• Take a break every few hundred kilometres.

Avoid driver distractions
• Keep your focus on the road.  Pull over to a safe location when you are reading a map, texting, making/answering a phone call, tending to children or eating.  Driver distraction is a contributing factor in 80 per cent of crashes.

Make it None for the Road
• Stay sober behind the wheel. One in five drivers involved in fatal collisions have been drinking prior to a collision.
• Plan ahead by arranging for a safe ride home before you have that first drink: assign a designated driver, call a friend or a cab for a ride and leave your car at home.

The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) is the largest membership organization in Alberta, representing more than 916,000 members. As a leading advocate for traffic safety, travel and consumer protection, crime prevention, and the environment, AMA represents the interests of its members and the motoring public to industry and all levels of government. Visit ama.ab.ca to learn more about AMA's products, services and member advocacy initiatives.

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For more information, contact:
Edmonton:  Don Szarko, Director, Advocacy and Community Services, AMA, 780-430-5733
Calgary:   Ron Wilson, Manager, Fleet Safety Services, AMA, 403-807-3314