Twice as many seat belt violators and distracted cell phone users

It’s not just your imagination: Drivers are using their cell phones more than ever, and it’s a troubling result echoed by users who are also ignoring their seatbelts, BC Highway Patrol (BCHP) reports.

“It’s easy to blame the driver next to you for their bad and unsafe decisions, but maybe it’s time to start looking in the mirror,” said BCHP Superintendent Lori Orstad. “The numbers are way too high. We should be making better decisions behind the wheel or even as passengers.”

A comparison of the 2026 Distracted Driver Campaign (for the month of September) and the 2025 campaign for Kootenay region (including Revelstoke, Nelson, Cranbrook, Golden): Use electronic device while driving ($368): 2025 -116; 2026 – 149.

The numbers are also up for Kootenay region in the Occupant Restraint Campaign compared to 2025: Fail to wear seatbelt, ($167) plus other occupant restraint offences. In 2025 there were 58 and 83 in 2026.

Staffing levels, good weather, and a lower number of serious fatalities (being investigated by BC Highway Patrol) in September 2026 may have played a role in the higher numbers, but driver behaviour is likely the most important factor.

“There’s never a better time than right now to build better habits,” said Superintendent Orstad. “Don’t start your car until you and every passenger are belted in. And put your phone out of reach before you hit the ignition. You can live without texting or using a GPS to get home from work.”

Enforcement includes all written feedback including warnings and tickets. Warnings make up approximately three per cent of the total.

Lead image: A Revelstoke BC Highway Patrol cruiser working a call out stop for distracted drivers. BC Highway Patrol photo

Article Share