Stock photo courtesy of ICBC

By Liam Verster

Safe Driving Tips

Travellers urged to be cautious over long weekend, dangerous driving penalties increasing

Aug 30, 2024 | 6:00 AM

Drivers planning trips over the Labour Day Long Weekend are urged to be cautious behind the wheel, with the province noting dangerous driving penalties will also be increasing.

The B.C. Government said a lot of people will be behind the wheel travelling throughout the province over the long weekend, and urged people drive to conditions and the speed limit; give plenty of space to large trucks and motorcycles; and avoid distractions behind the wheel.

The province also encouraged people allow for extra travel time; plan routes ahead of time; bring extra food and water for the trip; make sure vehicles are in good working condition; and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Along with urging safe driving, the province is increasing penalties for people who drive dangerously in B.C.

Effective Sunday, September 1, people who engage in reckless and dangerous driving, such as excessive speeding, street racing, driving without a licence, or driving while impaired, will face significantly higher fees for towing and storage of impounded vehicles.

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“Too many lives have been lost due to reckless and dangerous driving, particularly this summer,” Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, stated.

“We’re making it clear that if you endanger others on our roads, you will face serious consequences, both criminally and financially.”

Starting Sunday, flat-rate towing fees will increase by 38 per cent to $110, and storage fees will be increased by 96 per cent to $40 per day.

Additionally, the per-kilometre towing rate will rise to $3.32; Storage Zone 1 rate will go up to $40; the Zone 2 and 3 rates will increase to $38.18; Storage Zone 4 rate will go up to $32; and the dolly fee will increase to $40. The standby, recovery, cleanup, additional service, loading and securing fee will also go up to $110.

The province said the intention of the higher penalties is to deter reckless behaviours on B.C. roads.