Two wet-weather crashes in as many days on Salt Spring’s busiest road brought traffic to a temporary standstill –– and have island officials reminding drivers to take extra care as the rainy season begins in earnest.
Both took place as the long weekend began, and happened along Fulford-Ganges Road, according to Salt Spring Island Fire Rescue (SSIFR) officials, who said an SUV off the roadway Saturday, Nov. 9 was followed by a two-vehicle collision Sunday, Nov. 10.
Drivers and passengers from both incidents were able to exit the vehicles on their own, according to SSIFR incident reports.
Saturday’s crash involved a single SUV and brought six firefighters and two apparatus, along with police and the BC Ambulance Service. No occupants were transported by the ambulance, according to SSIFR, although Salt Spring Island Towing and Recovery removed the vehicle and helped clear the scene.
Hours later, a two-vehicle crash Sunday morning near the Fulford Fire Hall left a pickup truck burning on the roadway –– and a second vehicle with “significant” front-end damage from the impact, according to SSIFR. The truck burst into flames after the collision, and firefighters said the fire was “well established” and burning in both engine and passenger compartments when they arrived.
That fire was extinguished, thanks to nearly a dozen firefighters and four apparatus; again, according to SSIFR, both the ambulance and RCMP members were on scene along with Salt Spring Island Towing and Recovery.
“The incident commanders of both incidents were able to communicate directly with BC Ferries to provide advance notice of the situations,” according to SSIFR. “BC Ferries crews significantly reduced traffic congestion by providing travellers with incident information and suggesting alternate travel routes.”
SSIFR suggests islanders take extra precautions during rainy weather, including:
• Slow Down: Wet roads reduce traction, increasing stopping distance and risk of hydroplaning.
• Increase Following Distance: Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front to allow for longer braking time.
• Check Your Tires: Worn tires are especially dangerous in wet weather, as they reduce grip.
• Use Headlights: Ensure you’re visible to others by keeping your headlights on in rainy or low-light conditions.