B.C. enforcement officers looking for chains, winter tires
KAMLOOPS, B.C. — ‘Chain up or turn back’ is the message from the Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement division in B.C. as they ramp up the enforcement of winter tire and chain regulations for commercial vehicles.
“We expect every commercial vehicle to be properly equipped for winter,” warned Transport Minister, Shirley Bond. “If we find you driving a commercial vehicle through our mountain passes without proper tires or chains, you could face a fine, and we’ll turn you back – and that will cost you time and money.”
Winter tires or chains are required for commercial vehicles from Oct. 1 to Apri. 30, wherever there is a sign that indicates ‘Use winter tires or carry chains beyond this point.’
There are about 250 such signs throughout the province, mostly in mountainous areas.
“We know that most trucking companies are experienced with winter driving and well prepared for weather conditions,” said Paul Landry, president and CEO of the B.C. Trucking Association. “This enforcement serves as a good reminder that we can’t take safety for granted.”
CVSE says it will be increasing its focus on winter tire checks. Drivers are subject to fines of $128 if they are not using appropriate tires.
The enforcement agency says it will be paying extra close attention to the following routes: Hwy. 1 from Revelstoke to the Alberta border; Hwy. 5 Merritt to Hope; Hwy. 5A Merritt to Kamloops; Hwy. 16 McBride to Alberta; and Hwy. 97 Cache Creek to Prince George.
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MY F350 4 X 4 FORD IS A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE WITH ALL SEASON TIRES. DOES THIS MEAN I TOO REQUIRE CHAINS. GOOD LUCK FINDING TIRE CHAINS FOR A 16″ TIRE. SHOULD I HAVE THEM FOR THE STEER/DRIVING AXLE AS WELL. GUESS THE COFFERS IN B.C. ARE DRYING UP!