BC Highway Patrol (BCHP) – Kootenay has found a shocking number of drivers operating vehicles without valid insurance. From December 1, 2023, to January 11, 2024, it found 177 drivers operating uninsured vehicles. Each driver received a violation ticket for no insurance for $598.

As a result, BCHP has compiled the top 10 excuses encountered:

•  ICBC never sent me a reminder.
•  I am on the way to purchase insurance right now.
•  I forgot.
•  I don’t have a decal anymore.
•  My insurance is paid for automatically, so I thought I didn’t need to renew.
•  The registered owner is my mom, dad or friend and it’s their job.
•  This is a company vehicle.
•  My vehicle is actually insured, but I don’t have the documents.
•  I cancelled the credit card that was making the preauthorized payments.
•  I know I don’t have insurance, but I really needed to go somewhere.

“Drivers should think about the risks of operating without insurance which include paying a significant fine, being financially responsible for a collision, and expensive towing costs,” says the Officer in Charge of Kootenay Highway Patrol, Inspector Chad Badry. “There is a risk of a driver’s license suspension or increased sanctions in court for repeat offences.”

BCHP’s advice to registered owners and drivers:

•  Owners must renew their own insurance as it is not automatically renewed
•  Drivers should check the expiry dates on vehicle’s documents before driving
•  Renewal notices are sent only as a courtesy and your address should be up to date
•  Set a reminder in your phone’s calendar
•  Documents must be kept in the vehicle or drivers may receive an $81 fine

Insurance can often be renewed online or over the phone. Do not drive the uninsured vehicle to the insurance broker to renew. Arrange a ride with a friend or find alternative transportation if driving to renew your insurance is your only option. Taking the bus, rideshare or taxi is cheaper than a $598 violation ticket and towing costs.