The British Columbia Highway Patrol caught more than 150 drivers in the Kootenays operating vehicles without insurance last year.
“The British Columbia-Kootenay Highway Patrol has found a surprising number of drivers operating vehicles without valid insurance,” RCMP officials said. “From December 1, 2023 to January 11, 2024, the BC Highway Patrol – Kootenai located 177 drivers operating uninsured vehicles.”
Each driver was handed a $598 ticket for not having insurance.
“Drivers should consider the risks of operating without insurance, which include paying a large fine, financial liability for a collision, and expensive towing costs,” said Inspector Chad Badry, officer in charge of the Kootenai Highway Patrol. “There is a risk of driving license suspension or increased penalties in court in case of repeat offences.”
British Columbia Highway Patrol officials have compiled the top 10 excuses they’ve heard for stopping someone without insurance:
- “The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) never sent me any reminder.”
- “I’m going to buy insurance now.”
- “I forgot.”
- “I don’t have a label anymore.”
- “My security deposit is paid automatically, so I figured I didn’t need to renew.”
- “The registered owner is my mom or dad or my friend and that’s their job.”
- “This is the company car.”
- “My car is insured, but I don’t have the documents.”
- “I canceled the credit card that was making previously authorized payments.”
- “I know I don’t have insurance, but I need to go somewhere.”
Police officials urge you to avoid driving an uninsured vehicle to renew it, as insurance can often be done online or over the phone.
“Arrange a ride with a friend or find alternative transportation if driving to renew your insurance is your only option. Taking the bus, ride-sharing or taxi is cheaper than the ticket and towing costs of $598,” RCMP officials said.
Police recommend registered owners take a few things into consideration:
- Owners must renew their insurance as it does not renew automatically.
- Drivers should check expiration dates on vehicle documents before driving.
- Renewal notices are sent only as a courtesy and your address must be up to date.
- Set a reminder in your phone calendar.
- Documents must be kept in the vehicle or drivers may receive a fine of $81.