RCMP across the province are wishing Albertan's and visitors a safe and happy Heritage Day long weekend.

As usual, police are expecting to see an increase in traffic on the roadways, and are asking motorists to drive carefully.

Last year there were eight fatalities and 39 injuries as a result of motor vehicle collisions across Alberta.

Police say a good majority of accidents in the province are caused by distracted driving.

Alberta Traffic Sheriffs Superintendent Rick Gardner says distracted driving is very dangerous.

"We remind Albertan's that distracted driving can severely limit a driver’s ability to focus on driving and road conditions." He says "Make sure to always put electronics away and to be prepared for unexpected actions of other road users and changing driving conditions such as construction."

According to Superintendent Gary Graham with Alberta RCMP Traffic Services, thousands of distracted driving tickets have been issued already.

"From January to June 2019, 5,063 distracted driving-related tickets were issued in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions. These high-risk driving behaviors are unacceptable." says Graham, "Distracted driving can be as dangerous as impaired driving. Traveling safely from one location to another on our roadways is a shared responsibility: Whether someone is an experienced driver or a new one, we all need to work together to keep our roads safe."

RCMP have released the following safety tips to ensure that road uses stay safe.

  • During construction season, follow all road signage to be prepared for speed changes and lane closures.
  • Motorcyclists and cyclists should always ensure they are wearing the proper protective gear.
  • For drivers new to Alberta, always ensure that you know and are following the rules of the road as they can differ from country to country and even province to province.

RCMP say they will continue to work with Alberta Sheriffs and other law enforcement and safety partners this weekend, to ensure Albertan's make the right driving decisions.