With the Canada Day long weekend upon us, Saskatchewan drivers are being reminded to exercise additional caution on roadways due to increased traffic volumes. 

Tyler McMurchy with SGI said statistically, your chances of getting into an accident on the highway are significantly increased during long weekends. 

"We know that people will be hitting the roads," McMurchy said. "travelling to either visit friends or family, so it's really important to realize that long weekends mean increased traffic on Saskatchewan roads and with that comes an increased risk of being in a collision."

SGI recommends you follow these tips to help make sure everyone on the road reaches their destination safely:

Drive sober and drug-free – Don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking or using drugs. Remember, even some prescription medication can impact your driving ability. Plan a ride home before you go out so you know you’ll get home safely. And be a good wingman - don’t let impaired friends or family drive either.

Avoid distractions – Give the road your full attention and leave your phone alone. Put it out of reach so you’re not tempted to use it. If you must make a call or send a text, have a passenger do it for you or pull over safely to the side of the road first. Set your playlist and GPS before you head out, or find a rest stop to do that.

Don’t speed – Obey posted speed limits and remember that they apply when driving in ideal road conditions. If road conditions aren’t ideal (e.g., icy or slippery conditions, poor visibility due to rain, fog or snow, etc.), slow down. Also, watch for school zones and work zones and adjust your speed accordingly

Buckle up – Always wear a seatbelt and make sure your passengers do too. If you’re travelling with kids, make sure they’re using the appropriate car or booster seat for their size and age.

Stay alert – Make sure you’re well-rested before hitting the road. If you have far to go, take turns driving with a passenger (as long as they have a valid licence) or take frequent rests so you can stay alert.

McMurchy said driving sober and drug-free is one of the most crucial tips to follow,

"There's zero tolerance for drug-impaired driving for all drivers and it`s important to remember that police can tell if you are impaired, whether it`s alcohol or drugs."

Crews are occupying construction zones over the long weekend as well. Work is taking place just north of Moose Jaw on highway 2 as it was announced last year that the provincial government would be adding passing lanes to aid in traffic flow.

Anyone entering or exiting the city from highway 2 will need to be vigilant when passing workers and equipment. 

The following is a list of construction projects taking place around the province currently, provided by the government of Saskatchewan.  

•             Highway 1 surfacing near Carmichael;

•             Highway 1 surfacing near McLean;

•             Highway 2 passing lanes north of Moose Jaw;

•             Highway 4 bridge work near Saskatchewan Landing;

•             Highway 4 bridge work near the Battlefords;

•             Highway 10 surfacing near Balcarres;

•             Highway 16 bridge work near Borden;

•             Highway 167 surfacing near Weyakwin; and

•             Highway 255 surfacing near Tobin Lake.