Rising highway fatalities prompt BC to ‘substantially increase’ dangerous driving penalties

Penalties for drivers caught driving dangerously are about to go up substantially due to the surge in highway fatalities, according to the BC government. 

This move is meant to be a deterrent to those driving BC’s highways, as if motorists are caught driving without due care, they will have to pay a hefty price. 

Specifically, the Province is raising the costs of towing and impounding the vehicles of drivers engaging in reckless driving behaviour.

This behaviour could include impaired driving, excessive speeding, street racing or driving without a licence.

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

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

Changes to vehicle towing and impoundment rates are:

• Flat towing rate is rising from $79.78 to $110.
• Per-kilometre towing rate is rising from $2.41 to $3.32
• Storage Zone 1 rate is rising from $23.98 to $40
• Storage Zone 2 rate is rising from $22.89 to $38.18
• Storage Zone 3 rate is rising from $20.71 to $38.18
• Storage Zone 4 rate is rising from $16.35 to $32
• Dolly fee is rising from $35 to $40
• Standby, recovery, cleanup, additional services, loading and securing fee is rising from $75.58 to $110

The new fees come into effect as of Sunday, September 1st.