B.C. significantly raises impound fees for dangerous driving.

In response to two summers of increased highway fatalities, the B.C. government is implementing measures to enhance road safety and impose stricter penalties for dangerous driving.

Photo of Fort St. John RCMP

Starting Sunday, September 1, 2024, drivers involved in reckless behaviors such as impaired driving, excessive speeding, street racing, or driving without a license will face substantially higher fees for the towing and storage of their impounded vehicles.

“Too many lives have been lost due to reckless and dangerous driving, particularly this summer,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “We’re making it clear that if you endanger others on our roads, you will face serious consequences, both criminally and financially.”

The changes include a 38% increase in the flat rate towing fee, raising it to $110, and a storage fee increase of up to 96%, up to $40 per day.

These higher fees are intended to send a clear message that dangerous driving will not be tolerated on B.C.'s roads.

By introducing stricter financial penalties, the government aims to deter reckless behavior and prompt drivers to reconsider engaging in dangerous activities that risk people’s lives.

These changes reflect B.C.'s commitment to improving road safety and minimizing fatalities.

“The fee increases are a necessary step in our ongoing commitment to public safety. By imposing stricter financial consequences on dangerous driving, we are sending a very clear message that reckless behavior on our roads will not be tolerated. Our goal is to protect all road users and reduce the tragic loss of life that too often results from these preventable actions,” said Deputy Chief Fiona Wilson, president, BC Association of Chiefs of Police in a media release on August 29.

Revisions to Vehicle Impoundment Rates:

·         Flat towing rate is rising from $79.78 to $110.

·         Standby, recovery, cleanup, additional services, loading and securing fees rise from $75.58 to $110.

·         Storage Zone 1 rate rises from $23.98 to $40.

·         Storage Zone 2 rate rises from $22.89 to $38.18.

·         Per-kilometer towing rate is rising from $2.41 to $3.32.

·         Storage Zone 3 rate is rising from $20.71 to $38.18.

·         Storage Zone 4 rate is rising from $16.35 to $32.

·         Dolly fee is rising from $35 to $40.

Taylor Kenyon, owner of Penticton Towing said “as a towing and recovery operator in B.C., I support the B.C. government and RoadSafetyBC’s impoundment fees for dangerous drivers. All too often innocent people fall victim to dangerous drivers. The new rates are a welcome step toward making B.C. roads safer for everyone.”