‘Slow down and drive safely,’ urges Fort St. John RCMP officers as snow and ice poses road risk

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The city’s RCMP is warning the community to be cautious while driving due to current road conditions. 

In a press release on December 23rd, the Fort St. John RCMP reminded the public to slow down and leave space due to the excessive amounts of snowfall both in town and on rural roads. 

This year, the city experienced higher-than-usual with over 300 per cent of average snowfall in December by the 18th. 

Additionally, the city also brought in extra contractors to help with snow clearing efforts using a category-based snow-clearing system. 

In the press release, the RCMP highlighted how collision reports are up and motorists/people are making complaints about other drivers tailgating or failing to stop at stop signs or red lights. 

Constable Chad Neustaeter, media relations officer for the Fort St John RCMP, said: “With high amounts of snowfall comes compact snow and icy road conditions.

“Driving to the current road conditions is key. 

“That may mean, leaving early, slowing down when conditions dictate and leaving space between yourself and the driver in front of you, giving yourself time to react to unpredictable circumstances.

“These proactive driving practices could make the difference to help you arrive at your destination safely and on time.”

Drivers who fail to drive as per road conditions and drive unsafely may face fines under the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act. 

Some of the ticketable offences are: 

• $167 fine and three demerit points for speeding relative to conditions. 
• $167 fine and three demerit points for failing to stop for a red light or obey a stop sign. 
• $109 fine and three demerit points for following too closely – which means driving too close to a vehicle in front. This applies to drivers of semis and other commercial vehicles as well. 
• $196 fine and six demerit points for driving without consideration. 
• $368 fine and six demerit points for driving without due care and attention.