RCMP issue fewer ‘electronic device violation’ tickets in northern B.C. amid campaign

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Statistics released by BC Highway Patrol show an improvement in ‘electronic device’ fines for drivers in northern B.C., but a rise in seatbelt violations.

During the month of March, BC Highway Patrol conducted an ‘occupant restraint and distracted driving’ campaign across the province.

According to statistics from the campaign, tickets issued to drivers in northern B.C. for the use of an electronic device decreased to 100 in March 2026, compared to 153 in March 2025. 

Northern B.C. saw the biggest improvement in distracted driving in the province, a release says. 

While drivers in northern B.C. saw fewer electronic device tickets, there was an increase in seatbelt violation tickets, up to 148 in March 2026 from 111 in March 2025. 

Michael McLaughlin, BC Highway Patrol media relations officer, says distracted driving is one of the most dangerous safety risks for drivers. 

“Distracted driving is still one of the top three things that can kill you on B.C. roads, along with speed and impairment, and seatbelts are just such an easy way to save lives in collisions,” says McLaughlin. “As long as they continue to be problems, we will continue to educate through enforcement.”

McLaughlin was unable to offer specific statistics for Fort St. John drivers, but did confirm Fort St. John was one of the northern B.C. communities covered by the campaign, alongside most places north of 100 Mile House.