Summer vacations are nearly done and traffic around schools is getting busy. It’s the perfect time to concentrate on your driving and make sure everyone is wearing a seatbelt for September’s Distracted Driving and Occupant Restraint Month in B.C.

“We have seen far too many fatal collisions in 2025 that would never have happened if the victims were properly restrained by seatbelts,” said Cpl. Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol. “We don’t want anyone to be a victim.”

Meanwhile, distracted driving is now one of the top three killers on B.C. roads alongside speeding and impairment.

“If you pick up your phone while driving, even at a stoplight, you are distracted,” said Corporal McLaughlin. “Even if the phone is mounted, and you do more than a single screen touch, then you are distracted.”

Here are some of the laws and penalties for distracted driving or not wearing a vehicle restraint:

• Fail to wear seatbelt, section 220(4) of the BC Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) with a fine of $167;
• Operate vehicle with inoperative seatbelt, section 220(3) of the BC MVA ($167);
• Child unrestrained or improperly restrained, section 36.03(1) of the BC Motor Vehicle Act Regulations (MVAR) $109;
• Inappropriate infant restraint system for child’s height/weight, section 36.06 of the BC MVAR ($109);
• Use electronic device while driving, section 214.2(1) of the BC MVA ($368);
• Use an electronic device while driving in violation of driver’s licence restriction, section 30.072(1)(a) of the BC MVAR ($368).

BC Highway Patrol will be working with partners throughout the month to do education through enforcement and make the roads safer.

“Before tragedy strikes, we ask you to get your eyes back on the road and make sure everyone is properly belted,” said Cpl. McLaughlin. “If you ignore those laws, it could be deadly to you, your passengers, and the people around you.”

e-KNOW file photo

BC Highway Patrol

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