BCHP intercepts driver-assisted technology equipped vehicle controlled by impaired driver.

Oceanside, Island District, B.C., BC Highway Patrol, Traffic Patrol

2023-04-24 14:19 PDT

File # BCHP Parksville 2023-655

On April 14, 2023, at approximately 10:00pm, RCMP Officers from BC Highway Patrol Parksville, as well as Oceanside Detachment responded to a report of a Honda Civic driving erratically on Highway 19 Northbound at Qualicum Beach, BC.
Image of a police vehicle seen through a side-view mirror

Officers intercepted the vehicle near Cook Creed Rd, and discovered it to be occupied by two men. The driver, a man in his 40’s from Alberta, had his seat fully reclined with drug paraphernalia on his lap and displayed symptoms of impairment. The passenger, a local man in his 30’s was in possession of a small quantity of a powder suspected to be fentanyl and was arrested on outstanding warrants.

The driver was not believed to have been in physical control of the vehicle while it was moving, but had engaged the driver-assisted technology features to keep the vehicle in motion.

Staff Sergeant Adam Tallboy, the acting OIC of BCHP Vancouver Island said As we see a gradual shift to vehicles equipped with driver-assisted technology, we are unfortunately encountering these types of situations. Despite this technology, we want to remind drivers that they must still be attentive, and are still responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle regardless of whether or not the driver-assisted features are actively engaged.

The driver of the vehicle was charged with multiple counts under the BC Motor Vehicle Act, including Drive Without Due Care & Attention. He was also prohibited from driving for 24 hours.
BC Highway Patrol

Released by

Cpl. Mike Moore

Media Relations Officer
BC Highway Patrol
Office: 604 526-9744

Email: E_BCHP_Media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: bc-cb.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/highway-patrol

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