Nearly three times as many drivers were caught using electronic devices on Vancouver Island during a provincewide road-safety campaign in September compared with the same campaign last year.
According to BC Highway Patrol, officers recorded 214 distracted-driving cases on Vancouver Island, up from 76 during the same campaign last year.
The number represents drivers who received tickets or written warnings.
Seatbelt-related violations also rose significantly on Vancouver Island. Police recorded 148 enforcement actions during this year’s campaign, compared with 79 last year—an increase of approximately 87%.
Using an electronic device while driving carries a $368 fine, while failing to wear a seatbelt can result in a $167 fine.
Similar increases were recorded across the province.
Throughout BC, distracted-driving violations increased from 734 during the September 2025 campaign to 1,587 this year. Seatbelt and other occupant-restraint violations climbed from 456 to 826.
BC Highway Patrol noted that the higher numbers do not necessarily mean distracted driving itself increased at the same rate.
Staffing levels, favourable weather and fewer serious fatal collisions requiring investigation may have allowed officers to spend more time conducting traffic enforcement. However, police believe driver behaviour was likely the most significant factor behind the increase.
The campaign totals include all tickets and written warnings issued during September. Warnings accounted for approximately 3% of the provincial total.
Police are reminding drivers to put their phones out of reach before starting their vehicles and to ensure everyone inside is properly buckled up.
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