August 2023 Traffic Roundup for the Maritimes

Over the past four days there have been two separate collisions, each involving four cars, on the Hillsborough Bridge. PEI RCMP say these collisions appear to have common factors including speed, lack of attention, and cars travelling too close together.

“Summer always means more cars on Island roads and Hillsborough Bridge is one of our busiest routes. Traffic often comes to a crawl during commutes across the bridge and drivers really need to pay attention, especially to how close they are to other cars in front of them. Thankfully neither of these recent collisions resulted in any injuries, but the inconvenience to those involved in the collision, and the other motorists trying to cross the bridge, can be significant.”

Constable Gavin Moore, PEI RCMP Media Relations Officer

On Friday, August 4 and again on Tuesday, August 8, Hillsborough Bridge traffic was very high, especially during the morning and evening commute times. Once across the bridge, there are multiple lanes that can require extra attention from motorists. With more population living in the area, combined with increased traffic during the summer months, this bridge becomes a major thoroughfare.

PEI RCMP remind all drivers:

• Always pay attention, distracted driving is a leading cause of collisions in Canada;
• Be aware of what is in front, around and behind you while driving;
• Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, and leave room if you have to drive around them;
• Modern cars may have advanced safety features but you, as a driver, are ultimately still in control and responsible;
• If you are in a minor collision, move your vehicle to a safe place out of the flow of traffic and exchange information with other drivers there;
• Plan ahead and be patient – summer is a busy time, travel at times when traffic will be lighter and give yourself lots of time.