After several serious collisions in the region, you're reminded to take your time if you're hitting the highways this weekend. Manitoba Public Insurance spokesman Brian Smiley says long weekend often lead to higher traffic volumes, whether it's due to those heading to their cabins or going to visit family. He says that can lead to an increased risk of collisions, adding one day in particular tends to be the most problematic during long weekend.

"The Friday of the long weekend is the worst day for fatalities and injuries heading into the long weekend. There's certainly an added importance for motorists out there to be cautious, drive responsibly, and do a self-evaluation of your driving behaviour and see if you need to adjust it."

He also notes the Friday of the long weekend usually sees drivers in a hurry to reach their destinations. He says ensuring you have ample time you reach your destination helps keep roads safer not just for yourself, but also those around you.

However, it's not just other drivers you need to be on the lookout for at this time of year. Smiley says it's an active time for Manitoba's wildlife during October and November, which often leads to a significant hike in the number of wildlife-related collisions during that period.

"It's rutting season for the animals, they're transient, moving from area to area and crossing roadways unfortunately. Again, if you happen to see animals crossing the roadway in front of you be prepared to stop. Do not swerve. If you swerve you have a chance of going into oncoming traffic, leaving the roadway, or rolling your vehicle. Apply your breaks, and go through the animal if you have to, but don't swerve your vehicle."

He also says ensuring you're paying attention to the road, remaining undistracted and unimpaired, and always wearing a seatbelt can also play a role in ensuring you and others are safe on the province's highways.