To help new and inexperienced drivers recognize and avoid potential hazards on the road, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) has launched an interactive driving simulation app.

“Street Sense” has been launched by ICBC in partnership with the provincial government, TELUS, and Project Whitecard Inc. The app features 15 simulated driving scenarios based on conditions and situations specific to British Columbia, such as merging into a multi-lane roundabout.

“With more British Columbians getting their driver’s licence than ever before, we encourage new drivers to use the Street Sense app as another tool to gain experience detecting hazards and keep them and others safe while behind the wheel,” said ICBC vice president of customer experience and public affairs Lindsay Matthews.

The app’s launch comes as ICBC noted that novice drivers in BC are 1.5 times more likely to crash than experienced drivers, citing crash data it collected in 2019. The app also launches as ICBC anticipates a surge in new drivers – the Crown insurer stated that since 2020, the number of drivers obtaining their learner’s licence in the province had increased by 24%.

ICBC announced on its website that the app is now available on multiple devices, including mobile, web, and PC – with a VR launch coming soon.