In response to the increasing number of collisions between trucks and overpasses, the British Columbia (BC) government announced on December 14th, announced that it would “crack down” by increasing fines.
More than half of the 30 truck-overpass collisions in British Columbia have occurred this year since 2021. The state government announced that the fine for vehicles exceeding the height limit will increase from $115 to $575. It is the largest similar fine in Canada.
From June 1, 2024, dump trucks will be required to be equipped with an alarm system that will sound an alert if the loading platform is raised while the vehicle is in motion. In addition, by April 5, commercial vehicles will be required to install speed limiters that prevent them from driving at speeds above 105 km/h.
In addition, severe measures may be taken against trucking companies that repeatedly cause collisions with elevated bridges, such as temporary suspension of operations or cancellation of licenses. Transport Minister Rob Fleming said, “These accidents not only cause serious injury concerns, but also have an impact on commuters and logistics.’
A crash in North Vancouver in September paralyzed traffic on Highway 1 for eight hours. Additionally, the viaduct was damaged in the Delta accident in July, and repairs will not be completed until the new year.