A Williams Lake family’s brand new vehicle was recently impounded for excessive speed after a learner driver was caught doing 168 kilometres an hour in a 120 km/h zone on the Coquihalla Highway.
The 20 year-old-woman, who was accompanied with five family members, was stopped on Highway 5, south of Merritt, in her dad’s 2026 Honda Pilot on Saturday, July 11 by the BC Highway Patrol.
According to a news release, the Williams Lake woman was issued a $368 fine under the BC Motor Vehicle Act, a seven-day vehicle impound, including the cost of towing, and at least three years of high-risk driver premiums that will bring the total costs close to $2,500.
“This is a reminder to everyone that just because something is technically legal, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea,” stated Cpl. Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol. “Learner drivers do not have the demonstrated skills to safely drive a large number of passengers – which is something this driver exemplified when she chose to speed.”
While the woman had five passengers, which normally would be a violation of the single passenger allowed by law, the news release noted an unlimited number of family passengers is an exception allowed by the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act.
Additionally, the registered owner (RO) is usually responsible for the cost of a seven-day vehicle impound. Because the RO is the learner driver’s father, the family may negotiate another arrangement among themselves.