You would think this would not need to be said, but drivers on the Sea to Sky Highway and throughout B.C. are being asked to slow down and move over whenever they see flashing lights.
Throughout February, BC Highway Patrol—which has two members stationed in Squamish—is running a campaign reminding drivers to use the 70/40 rule.
The rule is this:
- When the normal speed limit is 80 km/h or higher, drivers must slow down to 70 km/h or less;
- When the normal speed limit is below 80 km/h, drivers must slow down to 40 km/h or less.
When encountering flashing red, blue, or yellow lights, section 47.02 of the BC Motor Vehicle Act Regulations requires all drivers to slow down and move into the furthest lane of traffic away from stopped vehicles.
This applies for:
- Police, fire and ambulance;
- Construction vehicles;
- Tow trucks;
- Utility and maintenance vehicles.
The RCMP's BC Highway Patrol consists of 455 officers who provide traffic law enforcement and public education and work closely with partner agencies with the goal of keeping provincial roads in the province safe, according to the RCMP website.
"Some drivers get frustrated when traffic slows for flashing lights, but it’s a law that helps protect first responders and roadside workers," says Cpl. Michael McLaughlin, BC Highway Patrol, in .
From 2008 to 2017, 230 workers were hit while working on roadways; 12 died, according to BC Highway Patrol.
"We would much rather you slow down than face a $173 violation ticket,” McLaughlin said.
In addition to a ticket, those who break the law get three penalty points on their driving record.
