Image: BC Highway Patrol

By Mike Vanden Bosch

BC Highway Patrol

Two vehicles towed in Chilliwack after being clocked well above the speed limit through narrow Vedder bridge

Apr 29, 2025 | 8:43 AM

CHILLIWACK — Two motorists are facing fines and higher driver insurance costs after being clocked driving more than 50 km/h above the posted speed limit on Highway 1 in Chilliwack during the Easter long weekend.

A spokesperson for the BC Highway Patrol says it has seen an increase in reckless driving behaviour from motorists, similar to what these two motorists were doing earlier this month in April.

“BC Highway Patrol has seen a recent uptick in excessing speeding, crashes involving motorcycles, and impaired driving. All road users need to start driving more reasonably right now to reverse the recent trend and make our roadways safer for everyone,” said Superintendent Mike Coyle with BC Highway Patrol. “Public safety is our top priority and we take it very seriously. People who choose to ignore safety will certainly be educated on its importance.”

The BC Highway Patrol says its officers will be particularly vigilant next month since May is “High-Risk Driving and Motorcycle Awareness Month” in British Columbia, which means extra enforcement operations for impaired driving, aggressive driving (including speeding and excessive speeding), distracted driving and seatbelt violations.

It’s all part of BC Highway Patrol’s effort to lessen the impact of the most dangerous weekend of the year on BC roads- the May long weekend.

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On Saturday, April 19, a BC Highway Patrol Officer stopped and impounded two excessive speeders at once who were travelling over the narrow Vedder Canal Bridge in Chilliwack.

Other notable incidents in April include:

• On April 14, 2025, a man received a $483 speeding ticket for driving more than 100 km/h over the speed limit on the Nanaimo Parkway while he was on his way to pick up his child. The driver also failed two breath tests for impairment;
• On April 13, 2025, 16 excessive speeders were impounded in a single day by a small group of BC Highway Patrol officers;
• On April 9, 2025, a motorcycle that was being driven recklessly crashed in the Massey Tunnel causing huge delays for other road users and sending the motorcycle rider to hospital.

BC Highway Patrol provided a picture of the motorcycle that it says was being driven recklessly through the tunnel.

“Motorcycle safety is a lot like high-risk driving; you have to take responsibility for your own unsafe behaviours while also watching out for other people who are being unsafe,” says Superintendent Coyle. “Before you speed, ask yourself: Would I be happy to donate $500 to the government and lose my vehicle for a week? You might prefer to slow down, enjoy your drive, and arrive at your destination safely and stress-free.

Tips for safer driving and riding:

• Slow down and drive (or ride) within your skills and ability;
• Never drive or ride while impaired, tired, or distracted;
• Watch out for more motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians as the weather warms up;
• Plan extra time for slower recreational vehicles, trucks, and construction;
• Consider adding extra stops to improve your mood and focus while driving;
• Consider purchasing, lighter, smaller-displacement motorcycles that are easier to handle and more fun to ride at slower, reasonable speeds;
• Consider advanced rider or driver training.